The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

MORE than 500 guests, decked out in their best attire, attended the Cancer Society's of the Bahamas 17th annual ball at Atlantis on Saturday to support the organisation's $3 million dollar expansion.

The ball is one of the major fundraisers for the Cancer Society. Proceeds from the event will help provide funding for the expansion of the Cancer Caring Centre which helps many cancer patients, especially from the Family Islands, with lodging while receiving treatment in New Providence.

"The event exceeded our expectations. It was an evening where a kaleidoscope of colours, combined with the talent of Bahamian designers, provided a memorable occasion to promote the awareness of all 25 types of cancers," said Richenda King, co-chair of the ball.

One of the most memorable moments at this year's event came when survivors modelled creations by Bahamian designers.

This year's event played off the fashion industry's most highly acclaimed, celebrity-packed, avant-garde event - the fundraising gala for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in New York City.

"This year's 'Met Gala' featured Bahamian designers who donated eight pieces which were modelled by four cancer survivors. In fact, this year over 30 cancer survivors attended the ball via a sponsorship of corporate Bahamas and other generous individuals. They expressed much joy in being a part of this year's gala event," Ms King told Tribune Health.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Awards to the Ride for Hope organisation.

"Ride for Hope was started in 2005 by Stephen Holowesko and Susan Larson. Along with their supporters and more than 3,5000 riders, Ride for Hope raised over $3,000,000 to fight cancer and build awareness. In fact, Ride for Hope donated $15,000 at the ball to assist in the Cancer Caring Centre's expansion project to add 16 beds for cancer patients," she said.

Another highlight was the Susan Andrews Award, which was presented to Judith Higgs, a long-serving board member of the Cancer Society.