D.C. Business Leaders Raise $3 Million at 22nd Annual Leukemia Ball 2009
March 25, 2009
March 23, 2009 (Washington, D.C.) – Despite the troubled economy, the National Capital Area Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) raised $3 million at the 22nd annual Leukemia Ball in support of its mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
More than 2,000 guests enjoyed the humor of actor, comedian and impressionist Frank Caliendo and danced to legendary American funk band Earth, Wind and Fire. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction with 400 unique packages, many including airfare from American Airlines, and had a chance to win one of two vehicles as a part of the Mercedes-Benz raffle.“In an unprecedented economic climate, we are so grateful for the extraordinary generosity shown here tonight,” said Donna McKelvey, Executive Director of LLS’s National Capital Area Chapter. “We greatly appreciate the business leaders who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the Leukemia Ball, our most important fundraising event of the year.”
The Leukemia Ball is recognized nationally for its unmatched fundraising accomplishments in support of LLS’s mission. A highlight of the evening was the recognition of the 2009 Mission sponsor—PhRMA the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. This award was a first in Leukemia Ball history.
“PhRMA is a long-time supporter of the mission we celebrate tonight and we honor our shared goal,” said McKelvey. “Tonight we pay tribute to PhRMA’s dedication to discovering new technologies and treatment methods to fight blood cancer and improve the lives of patients and their families.”
In addition, LLS also honored two Titans of Business & Philanthropy—Eli Lilly and Company and Jim Beers and John Cutler, co-founders of accounting and consulting firm Beers + Cutler. The 2009 Titans of Business & Philanthropy are recognized community leaders who have not only been successful in their own business endeavors, but equally noted for the impact they have had in both business and community environments.
“The funds raised by the Leukemia Ball over two decades have contributed to truly remarkable achievements - yet with blood cancers still claiming a life every 10 minutes, we are more committed than ever to supporting the important work of LLS, ” said Ball co-chair Joseph B. Kelley, Vice President, Government Affairs, Lilly USA, LLC who lost his wife to leukemia six years ago.
“It has been inspiring to work with our dedicated team of more than 60 of the region’s business leaders to make this evening a reality,” continued Ball co-chair, Ed Offterdinger, managing partner of Beers + Cutler. “What a testament to the power of a team of accomplished business leaders coming together in support of such a worthy cause.”
Guests included the 2009 Nurse of the Year recently announced by the National Capital Area Chapter of the LLS, Sabrina Bielefeldt of Georgetown University Hospital. Erin Madison, celebrating 10 years as a Leukemia survivor, was also in attendance to celebrate. Both women exemplify how patients are empowered and lives are saved each day thanks to the work of the LLS.
For photos or for additional information about the 2009 Leukemia Ball, contact Rebecca Lestner at 703-399-2905.
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About the Leukemia Ball
The Ball began in 1988 as a way for the accounting industry to give back to the community. The event founders chose The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (formerly the Leukemia Society of America) as the beneficiary. In its first year, the Ball attracted 400 guests and raised $80,000. As the event has grown over the past 22 years, it has enjoyed far-reaching support from every corner of the Metro region’s influential business community. Since its inception, the Leukemia Ball has raised more than $36 million dollars. As this support has continued to grow so dramatically, so have the remarkable research results.
About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world’s largest private organization concerned solely with funding research toward cures for blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improving the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS was established in 1949 as the deVilliers Foundation, named in memory of Robert Roesler deVilliers who died of leukemia at the age of sixteen. LLS is dedicated to being one of the top-rated voluntary health agencies in terms of dollars that directly fund the mission: LLS’s expenditures are directed to research, patient and community services, advocacy and education. Since its founding in 1949, LLS has invested more than $600 million in research specifically targeting leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Last year alone, LLS made 6.3 million contacts with patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals.
About the National Capital Area Chapter
LLS has 68 chapters, and the National Capital Area Chapter is one of the highest revenue-generating chapter in the nation. The National Capital Area Chapter serves Washington DC; the Maryland counties of Prince George and Montgomery; and the Virginia Counties of Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria and Prince William. More than 2,500 patients and families are served by the chapter each year.
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