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Big turnout for the 29thAnnual Desert Spirit Gala held in Rancho Mirage

Published March 13, 2018 7:52 PM

The Coachella Valley’s premier gala to fight cancer was held in Rancho Mirage Sunday night.

More than six hundred people showed up the rock and roll-themed event was at the Heckmann Estate which featured food from ten different local restaurants, as well as a performance by singer-songwriter Richard Marx who was honored with the Spirit of the Mission Award.

Marx was introduced by his wife, television host, comedian and model, Daisy Fuentes who spoke about his kindness and giving heart. Marx told a sentimental story about a young girl he met years ago with bone cancer and how she had, “the purest, kindest heart,” he’s ever know. Marx said, “her positivity rubbed off on him.” He has since given financial support for pediatric cancer care.

Melissa Neiderman, Krisann Kontaxis and Shay Moraga

The Celebration of Life Honoree was Shay Moraga. Moraga battled breast cancer as a young woman and mother. Moraga said she was surrounded by a close knit group of friends who helped her through the chemo and radiation. She also credited others going through the cancer battle at the same time with helping her stay positive and focused.

Posthumous Celebration of Life Honoree was Greg Polzin. His mother took to the stage to thank everyone for their support and talk about how helping others with cancer helps her get through the sadness of his loss.

Organizers had attendees hold up glow sticks to signify the friends and family they have lost to cancer. On this night they say they’d like to raise more than $180,000 to shatter past year dollar amounts. All the money will stay in the desert to help people who are fighting cancer and to find a cure.

“Tonight is about finding a cure, always finding a cure, but really we have to get the research money and the money for patient services and tonight we a remembering and honoring the lives of so many.” said volunteer Melissa Neiderman.

KESQ anchor Karen Devine was the night’s emcee. Organizers said this was the American Cancer Society’s 29th annual Desert Spirit Gala.