Mark Romig and Janet Krane
The Shops at Canal Place were buzzing with activity on the evening of Aug. 12 when the American Cancer Society held its annual “Hope Gala,” themed “Flower of the Lily.”
During the event, the ACS presented its Spirit Awards to members of the community who have made significant contributions to the fight against cancer. Honorees included: Dr. Mary Abell, Sherry Allen, Frank Beyer, Dr. Joan Cheng, Dr. Maria Cortez, Dr. Terry Fontham, Denise Johnson, Dr. Hana Safah, Dr. Troy Scroggins and Donna Williams. The Hope of New Orleans Award, which recognized those who are helping rebuild the city’s healthcare system, was given to Stephen Baldwin of Tulane University Hospital, Dr. Marcus Lynn Black of East Jefferson General Hospital, David Goodson and Janet Krane of Memorial Medical Center, Dr. John Cole of Ochsner Cancer Institute, Tommy Nicholls of Touro Infirmary, Carolyn Montreuil on behalf of the 8 South Oncology Nursing Unit of West Jefferson Medical Center, and Dr. Tammuella Singleton of Children’s Hospital. Bill Nielson of Nielson’s Pharmacy received the “Unsung Hero” award for his decision to move his pharmacy to the outpatient wing of LSU Medical Center, in order to fill free prescriptions for patients in the days following Hurricane Katrina. And, Madeleine Guice Nicoladis, Jefferson Parish Councilwoman Jennifer Sneed and Cokie Roberts served as survivor honorees.
Honorary chairs Diana Lewis and Max Ryan hosted the patron party at Morton’s, The Steakhouse, which began at 5:30 p.m. Afterwards, guests and honorees converged at the gala, held in the first floor atrium of the Shops at Canal Place. Celebrity chair Sally-Ann Roberts of WWL-TV/Channel 4 emceed the ceremonies, and guests danced to music by the Tip Tops. Decorations provided by Glenn Vesh of Perfect Presentations included thematic pink and white lilies. Local restaurants, including Herbsaint, Commander’s Palace and Bayona, served food up.
For the live auction, partygoers could bid on trips to Montana, a George Rodrigue “Blue Dog” print, and a yellow sapphire and diamond necklace. The silent auction featured Mignon Faget jewelry, New Orleans Saints’ football paraphernalia and other tempting items.
The event raised more than $110,000 and proceeds from the “Hope Gala” will benefit the ACS’s programs in research, education, advocacy
and service.
Tony and Beth Lott
Diana Lewis and Max Ryan
Brad Grundmeyer, Madeleine Guice Nicoladis and Dr. Charlie Brown
Nicole Labadot and Terry Birkhoff
Dr. Terry Fontham and Steve Usdin
