Cancer Bridges’
2024 Light Up Gala
Event Description
Cancer Bridges' annual Light Up Gala is a beacon of hope and support for those whose lives have been impacted by cancer. This special event is dedicated to honoring our luminaries—individuals and organizations who have made a profound and lasting impact on Cancer Bridges and the cancer community. We celebrate their contributions through five distinguished award categories, each reflecting their commitment and dedication to our cause. The Gala also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the cancer journeys of our members, acknowledging the resilience and strength found in survivorship, the selflessness and dedication of caretakers, and the profound courage in facing grief.
The Light Up Gala is more than just an event; it is a powerful statement of awareness and recognition for the vital programs and services that Cancer Bridges provides to our community. It underscores the importance of our work and the significant role we play in offering support to those impacted by cancer in our region. Throughout the evening, we share inspiring member stories and personal experiences, which are the highlight of the night. These narratives not only showcase the challenges and triumphs faced by our members but also illuminate the unwavering spirit of the Cancer Bridges community. This event is a testament to our collective strength and a celebration of the light we bring into each other's lives.
The Light Up Gala is Cancer Bridges’ largest fundraiser, welcoming 350+ guests from businesses, regional medical centers, and supporters, to bring awareness to Cancer Bridges and raise funds in support of our free programs and services. This year’s event will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at The Westin Pittsburgh.
Our evening program will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail hour, silent auction, wine pull, and more. At 7:30 p.m. our Master(s) of Ceremonies will welcome guests, on stage entertainment will be provided, and the keynote speaker, to be determined, will address the audience. We will also give our Luminary Awards, feature a Cancer Bridges video and call to give, and end the evening with dancing.
Past keynote speakers have included Dr. Stanley M. Marks, MD, Chairman, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology at UPMC Shadyside, Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Cancer Bridges Board of Directors; Dr. Steven Evans, MD, Surgeon at UPMC, Clinical Professor of Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Vice-Chairman of the Department of Surgery at UPMC Shadyside; and Dr. Shannon L. Puhalla, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, specializing in breast oncology, Phase I clinical trials, and novel therapeutics in breast cancer, as well as others.
A cancer diagnosis is a life-altering experience. Cancer Bridges is here to support individuals, families, friends, caregivers, and those who have lost a loved one to cancer. The organization provides critically needed emotional, social, and health and wellness services and programs to anyone impacted by cancer, at no cost.
Those individuals and families impacted by a cancer diagnosis need support beyond their medical treatments, so our focus is on addressing the overall health and well-being of our members. All are welcome to join Cancer Bridges and receive the information and tools they need to navigate their unique cancer journey. Cancer Bridges offers an average of 180 programs and services each month through in-person, hybrid, and virtual programming to our members, reducing the psychosocial side effects of cancer and increasing the knowledge and coping skills needed to manage the illness and its related life disruptions. At Cancer Bridges, members have access to these critical services at no cost: Short-Term Supportive Counseling, Support Groups, Education & Community Connections, Creative Expression Workshops, Health and Wellness Classes, Social Activities, and a comprehensive Family & Youth Program. Anyone impacted by cancer will benefit from the social, emotional, and physical health and wellness programs offered through Cancer Bridges, including those with a cancer diagnosis, those who have a loved one with cancer, or have experienced the loss of a loved one due to cancer.
