Gala aims to find cancer cure

By Rachel Weatherford ~ For the Southeast Missourian

Dozens of people from the Cape Girardeau area raised money Saturday night to fight a disease that kills millions of people, while chatting and having fun at the Plaza by Ray's.

The event was the 26th annual American Cancer Society's A Cure for Cape Cancer Gala. The theme this year was "Samba for Life," featuring a Brazilian touch.

Victoria Moon and Mary Kohlfeld, the event's co-chairwomen, said the goal was to raise at least $200,000.

Moon said something new the committee added was an Ambassador of Hope. The honoree is someone who is struggling against cancer. Nolan Weber, who attended Jackson High School and is going to Southeast Missouri State University this fall, was chosen as this year's ambassador. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2011.

Kim Edwards has volunteered for the last eight years at the cancer gala.

"My dad passed away from cancer, so I got involved," Edwards said.

Brittany Oliver, who works in the area, attended with her date, Alex Austin. Her boss, representing Source Yoga and Doctor's Express, is a sponsor. She and Austin sat at a table with six others.

Oliver went to the event to remember those around her who have battled cancer.

"It's in my family," Oliver said. Her grandmother and aunt were among those who struggled against the disease.

Austin also had an aunt who succumbed to cancer. He attends the event in memory of her and others affected by the disease that kills millions each year.

Austin and Oliver are active in the community to fight against cancer.

"We also go to all the Relays for Life, so I'm in support of battling cancer. I think it's important to help others and find a cure. Here, it's good to have a chance to do that and have some fun," Austin said.

The Intention, a rock'n'roll band from Cape Girardeau, provided the entertainment. The band dedicated their performance to several loved ones affected by cancer.

The event also raised money with a silent auction, and attendees could purchasing tributes in memory of a friend or family member who died of cancer.

Moon said the Cure for Cape Cancer gala has "the support of the community," noting both SoutheastHEALTH and St. Francis hospitals were represented.

Moon said she was glad to see many people attending.

"We want to raise awareness and funding for patients with cancer and who are currently battling cancer, and bring awareness to the community," Moon said.

The presenting sponsor of the gala was Saint Francis Medical Center. Top sponsors were SoutheastHEALTH, Advanced Dermatology, Cape Radiology Group, MidAmerica Hotels Corp. and the Southeast Missourian.