The Tribune

MEMBERS of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas said they were extremely pleased with the turnout for their 13th annual ball and the amount of proceeds raised on the night.

The donations are especially valued in these tough economic times, organisers said.

The black-tie event, themed “Glitz, Glam and Giving”, was recently held at the Meli� Nassau Beach Resort on Cable Beach

For the 13th edition of the Cancer Society Ball, guests enjoyed entertainment from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Band playing for the cocktail reception, as well as performances from the Visage and Tingum Dem bands which played during the ball itself.

Gina Gonzalez-Rolle of the Cancer Society and the Cancer Ball Committee said the ball is one of the main fundraising events for the non-profit organisation. Money raised through the ball will especially go towards the Cancer Caring Centre.

One guest told Tribune Health that the event never fails them.

“My husband and I have been supporting it for many years and I am happy to see how far it has come and successful it has become,” the guest said.

“I’ve experienced losing a close family member to cancer and it is not something I would wish on anyone. I am so happy to know that events like this continue to shine a light on helping and one day finding a cure. I will be back again next year, God willing.”

Another guest, Francine Turnquest, said she enjoyed the entertainment segment the most.
“Visage made me do a little one-two step. I love their energy and style. I appreciate that the ball is for a great cause and I would be more than happy if they decide to do it twice a year,” she said.

For the annual ball, Mrs Gonzalez-Rolle said they usually focus on a general message of hope, but this year the Society wanted to emphasise to its guests that they can be glamorous as they help support a good cause. A member of the Cancer Society for many years, Mrs Gonzalez-Rolle said she has seen the annual ball grow in many ways since its inception.

• See The Big T this Saturday for our “Belles of the Ball” feature on the 13th Annual Cancer Society Ball.