4TH ANNUAL UNDER THE STARS GALA
The 4th Annual Under the Stars Gala, that took place on August 10th, 2023 at The Heritage Club at Bethpage, was not only a celebration of achievements but a poignant reminder of the battles fought and victories gained in the world of cancer care and patient support this year.
The event featured stories of resilience, hope, and the power of community highlighted by our honorees, Nicole Flores, Chief Operating Officer of New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS), Susan Kavanagh, Patient Advocate and Survivor and Carol Silva, Former News 12 Anchor and Survivor.
The nine year partnership between NYCBS and Mondays at Racine, focusing on patient advocacy, support, and more access to Mondays beauty and wellness services, has been spearheaded by Nicole Flores. Her efforts to advance the Mondays Mission, unwavering support and continued faith in what we do was applauded by all in attendance, further emphasizing her vital role in the fight against cancer.
Dr. Jeffrey Vacirca and Nicole Flores with Karla Waldron
We’d be remiss to not acknowledge how grateful we are to Dr. Jeffery Vacirca, CEO of New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, for his belief and continued support of our vision and growth.
“Together with Dr. Vacirca, Nicole and the entire NYCBS team, we have worked tirelessly to extend assistance to those battling cancer, ensuring that vital services remain accessible and free of charge. Our combined efforts have undoubtedly made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and families dealing with the challenges of cancer, embodying the true spirit of community support and compassion.“ - Karla Waldron, Executive Director, Mondays at Racine.
The night began with a Meditation Moment with Mondays Meditation Specialist Colleen Doumeng, who set the tone with a message of reflection and mindfulness, reminding guests of the purpose of the event - to support, honor, and remember those affected by cancer. It provided a moment of serenity amidst the festivities, allowing attendees to center themselves and focus on the shared mission of the gala.
The evening reached its emotional peak during the 1st Annual "A Night of Light" Ceremony, where guests were invited outside to light a sparkler in memory or honor of someone facing cancer. This show of unity was apparent as the sky shone with a collective light, symbolizing the strength and resilience of cancer survivors and paying tribute to those who continue to fight.
In every sense, the gala lived up to its theme of "Under the Stars," bringing people together and shining a light on the experiences of those touched by cancer. It was a night of unity, compassion, and hope, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended and reinforced the importance of supporting one another through life's challenges.
