Look Good Feel Better, a global charitable organization dedicated to serving people in cancer treatment through its workshops to address the physical and appearance related side-effects of their treatment, brought its annual BeautyCares DreamBall Gala to New York’s Gotham Hall on Wednesday, October 11. The annual Gala is the largest single fundraiser for the Look Good Feel Better Foundation, this year raising nearly $1.2 million to support the program.
The year’s program recognized four beauty and personal care products industry leaders and icons for their advocacy and support, as well as NBC News correspondent and breast cancer survivor Kristen Dahlgren (Survivor Advocate Award), whose personal story has informed and inspired millions. Industry honorees included, Debi Chirichella, senior vice president, Hearst & president, Hearst Magazines (Media Champion Award); R. Alexandra Keith, CEO P&G Beauty (Corporate Champion Award); Melis Del Rey, Amazon GM of US Stores for Beauty, Baby & Beauty Technology (Retail Champion Award); and George Schaeffer, philanthropist, CEO of Aloxxi and OPI Founder (Legacy Award).
Since 1989, Look Good Feel Better has served more than 2.2 million cancer patients in 27 countries. The program develops and administers free, brand-agnostic, in-person and virtual workshops covering skincare and makeup, wigs and head-coverings, nail care, body image and styling. The collaborative workshop setting lets patients gather, share, and support one another as they learn from professional beauty instructors specially trained to address the specific needs and considerations for people in active treatment or recovery.
“While our program curriculum and delivery models have evolved over the past 30 years, one thing remains true — the process of reclaiming one’s personal identity during cancer treatment will always be a powerful and beautiful statement,” said Louanne Roark, executive director of the Look Good Feel Better Foundation. “We know that seeing a vibrant, confident face looking back in the mirror can be life affirming and life changing for people in cancer treatment and recovery. The BeautyCares DreamBall Gala celebrates the spirit of survivorship, as well as the overwhelming support from our partners, volunteers, and allies as, together, we work to restore hope for a better tomorrow.”
The BeautyCares DreamBall was hosted by legendary radio personality Shelley Wade, afternoon host on New York City’s 94.7 The Block and featured three-time Grammy nominee and Broadway star Ryan Shaw. An online auction, featuring dozens of exclusive items and experiences will remain open until October 18, 2023.