American Cancer Society hosts Desert Spirit Gala
It was a lighter take on a heavy topic in Rancho Mirage on Sunday night where the American Cancer Society’s Desert Spirit Gala was held at the exclusive Heckmann Estate with a “Palms to Pineapples to Hula Party.”
For $300 per ticket, attendees were treated to both a silent and live auction, an array of food from local restaurants as well as cocktails and dancing. The night also paid tribute to those who have battled the disease, like Celebration of Life Honoree Erin Burnham, who is a survivor of breast cancer.
“People need to No. 1, get tested. No. 2, people need to share with others a word of encouragement. When somebody is sick, please talk to them, please hug them, please give them a note,” she told KESQ News Channel 3’s and KESQ News Channel 2’s Katie Widner.
The American Cancer Society offers services and programs in the Desert, including free transportation, wigs and boarding for cancer patients and their families.
“It’s the 28th year and all of the money raised here stays local and that’s what’s important to the people who come out every year because they give money toward packages that go back to help people that have cancer in the Valley,” said KESQ Evening Anchor Karen Divine, who emceed the event.
