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It Was a Spectacular “Party Under the Stars” Gala at the Hyatt Regency in Sarasota Raising Almost $358,000!

It Was a Spectacular “Party Under the Stars” Gala at the Hyatt Regency in Sarasota Raising Almost $358,000!

| Laura Bell Adams |

I have attended many galas and fundraisers over the years! I have to say that this year’s “Party Under the Stars” was one of the best that I have ever gone to. The entire evening was superb.

I really did not know too much about the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. About 6 months ago, I received an email from Sandra Shahinian, Chair of the “Party Under the Stars” Committee. She asked if The Suncoast Post would be interested in becoming a sponsor of the event. The email caught my eye! It was well written, contained all of the information I needed, and I could feel a smile & love coming from the email. I respond back with a “yes”.

 

 

We wrote several stories about the event and, as time went by, I learned more and more about the organization. Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation provides grants to financially struggling cancer patients that are undergoing treatment to help with their non-medical living expenses (i.e. mortgage, electric bill) so they can focus on their fight against the disease. The FCS doctors started the foundation after they noticed patients were ending their treatment because they couldn’t afford to keep their home or the lights on because of the financial burden that cancer causes with medical bills, and often not being able to work while sick. They felt that no one should have to choose between treatment and these living necessities, nor should they have this additional stress while trying to get better. The foundation and the financial support provided to patients in need helps them focus on the fight.

I did not meet Sandra or any of the fabulous team from Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation until the night of the event. And, oh, what an event! From the cocktail hour to the fabulous dinner, a tremendous silent and live auction to some of the best entertainment I’ve ever heard by Powerhouse | The Next Generation, it was a perfect evening.

Bobbi Norris was honored for her efforts with the "Make a Difference" Foundation.In the photo, from Left to Right: Sarah Brown, Abigail Brown (4 yrs), Isabelle Brown (9 mo), Bobbi Norris, Shelly Glenn (FCS) and Darren Brown (son). Bobbi was honored for her and her late husband’s efforts with the “Make a Difference” Foundation.

Congratulations to the entire team at the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. You’re all SUPERSTARS! Your hard work and determination helped to raise $357,741 which was a 20% increase over last year.*

I commend all of you and I certainly hope that The Suncoast Post and Sande Caplin & Associates will be asked to be a sponsor for next year’s event.

*Information from Sandra Shahinian

Photos from The Suncoast Post

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