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The Ladies Leukemia League and its supporters donned their glitzy holiday best for the annual Fête de Noel luncheon and fashion show, held this year at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. Taking place in the hotel’s ballroom, more than 1,300 guests turned out for this special occasion, as it marked the 40th anniversary of the Ladies Leukemia League.
Lucy Bustamante served as mistress of ceremonies. Twinkling lights filled the room and created a stunning atmosphere for the Dillard’s fashion show – in addition to the gold backdrop, that is. Mr. Bingle was in attendance to the delight of attendees, as models gleefully tossed smaller stuffed versions into the crowd. Young Madeline Mateer sang, “Go Light your World” and following the show, lunch was served. Guests enjoyed a feast of shrimp salad with a lettuce wedge; grilled chicken with andouille dressing; and finally a trio of desserts. Aucoin Hart Jewelers generously donated a Rolex watch, won by a member of the League’s medical panel, Dr. Roy Weiner. Other guests of note included grant recipients Felipe Samaniego and Jillan Wise of MD Anderson, event chair Joan Ingram, President Carolyn D’Antonio, Event Co-chair Joy Hocke-North, Tommy Aucoin and President Elect Lorraine Cucciara. To date, the Ladies Luekemia League has raised more than $2.4 million to fund research grants.