Hundreds come out for ACS Desert Spirit Gala

Hundreds came out dressed to the nines Sunday to raise funds for a good cause.

The American Cancer Society held its Desert Spirit Gala at the Heckmann Estate in Rancho Mirage.

The event included a night of food, drinks, dancing and a silent auction to raise funds and honor those who’ve battled cancer.

“Everyone of us has either dealt with it, knows someone who has dealt with it, who has lost someone, or is a survivor,” Desert Spirit Gala Chair Kim Waltrip said. “We’re just here to all come together to support one another and to let each other know that we’re going to beat this together.”

Among the people honored was Desi Cechin, a local girl who died recently after battling cancer for almost two years.

“She brought so much to us,” American Cancer Society Advisory Chair Melissa Neiderman said. “She brought the community together. She brought the world together. We have so many things coming up to honor her and her foundation.”

Other honorees included actors Dick Van Patten and Linda Gray, and journalist Gloria Greer.

News Channel 3’s Karen Devine emceed the event.