WFFH Fundraising Gala 2009
Thank You to Patrons for Making 2nd Gala a Smashing Success
Long Island in winter is usually cold, but this year the 2nd Black Tie Fundraising Gala of the World Foundation for Medical Studies in Female Health caused February to heat up in a spectacular way, complete with generosity, great food, charitable celebration, and a touch of both Hollywood and hip-hop.
Held February 7th at the Port Washington Yacht Club, the gala and casino was filled with patrons who enjoyed superb fare; tried their luck at black jack, craps, roulette, and slots; bid on more than $17,000 worth of donated merchandise from area restaurants, stores, individuals, and corporations; and danced the night away to jazz from an L&S Entertainment ensemble. The focus this year was on lung cancer awareness and smoking cessation programs for women.
Highlights of the evening were the honorees. WFFH Chairman Dr. Michael Fried presented the Roland Award to
Dr. Theodore Gabig, head of hematology/oncology at Stony Brook University Medical Center for his work in lung cancer treatment.
Program Director Amy Koller honored Tammy Pahel for her work as a volunteer fundraiser; and
Executive Director Kathleen Yasas presented the award for philanthropy to musician/actor
LL Cool J, for his charitable contributions, particularly those related to women’s health.
Attendees from around the country gathered in Port Washington for the gala, which this year featured a speakeasy theme. Anti-cigarette girls circulated throughout the club selling raffle tickets and “funny money” for the casino, and guests were even greeted at the door by fedora-wearing “gangsters.” One special guest, and friend of the foundation, was
Oscar-award nominee Burt Young, known best for his role as Paulie in the Rocky movies. Mr. Young generously donated a piece of his artwork to the gala’s silent auction. Other special donations from Port Washington benefactors included a pair of pearl and sapphire earrings from Glenn Bradford Jewelers, goody bags from Dr. Ping Zhang, and a $300 limousine ride to New York City from Designer Limousines.
While the mood was light, the fundraising subject matter was serious…lung cancer in women, the death rate for which has surpassed both breast and ovarian cancers. Ms. Koller, head of WFFH programming, will spearhead the foundation’s efforts in 2009 to raise awareness about this deadly disease and how cigarettes play a critical role.
Stay tuned to the website this year for information about other upcoming fundraisers, such as our autumn golf tournament and programs WFFH is planning with LL Cool J; our weekend spa educational programs; and other events geared to educating women about lung cancer in particular, and about their own wellness overall.
WFFH is a 58-year-old 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that focuses on empowering women – through education – to be proactive about healthcare so that they may achieve ultimate well-being in mind, body, and spirit.
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