Cancer gala adds style with cause

The American Cancer Society's Crystal Ball, also referred to as A Cure For Cape Gala, will be held at Isle Capri Cape Girardeau on Saturday. The gala is a fun experience where supporters dress to the nines and raise money to help those who battle cancer.

This year's gala is sold out. That demonstrates the support this community provides for the organization. However, there are still opportunities to support the cause.

According to Kelli Schenimann of the American Cancer Society, money raised at the gala helps fund cancer research at Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri in Columbia, Saint Louis University and Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City.

She said that within the last year, the funds helped Southeast Missouri cancer patients through more than 3,346 programs and services. Among the ways they help include: 1,934 nights at Hope Lodge; 491 rides to receive treatment; and 110 wigs provided. The information phone line also helped 10,605 people in the state.

Though tickets for the gala are not available, donations and memorials may be sent to American Cancer Society, Attn: Kelli Schenimann GALA, 106 Farrar Drive, Suite 104, Cape Girardeau MO 63701.

Watch for a photo gallery from the festivities on Saturday at semissourian.com.

Cancer touches many lives, and events like A Cure for Cape help bring awareness and important funds that help patients. Thank you to everyone who supports this cause and to those who help organize the gala and auction.