It’s a feat that Ladies Leukemia League does annually with style and panache: host its Fête de Noël, a celebration of spirit and survival.
Attracting more than 900 guests — not unusual for this event — the luncheon, themed “When You Wish Upon A Star, Then A Cure Will Not Be Far,” was on Dec. 2 in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel.
Camille Whitworth was the event’s emcee, guiding attendees through an exciting afternoon. Always a favorite happening was the fashion show by Dillard’s, which included a moving tribute to leukemia survivors Holly Martin Millet, Jake Meerman (age 6) and John Robert Toubre (age 12). Each walked the runway to warm applause as their stories were read aloud, with the young survivors also outfitted by Dillard’s. Emphasizing the holiday season (which to be honest, in New Orleans continues on through Carnival), Mr. Bingle tossed plush toys, Mardi Gras-style.
More funds were raised with a “Parade of Prizes” featuring 100 wrapped gifts and a Holiday Wish Raffle offering two items: a David Yurman diamond ring donated by Aucoin Hart and a Chanel gift basket. Door prizes ranged from a $1,000 Dillard’s cosmetics basket to a two-night stay at the Hilton.
Led by President Anita Hymel and co-chairs Angela Riviere and Ana Eller, the event blended holiday joy with purpose, raising awareness and support for leukemia patients across the region.
Fun Fact: Santa was played by Stephen Kernion, a third-generation Santa following in the footsteps of his father and uncle.
