As one of the area’s largest, nonpolitical black-tie events, the Leukemia Ball has raised over $52 million during the past 30 years. Since the first Leukemia Ball in 1988, the National Capital Area Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has made this possible in the fight against blood cancers with the support of business, philanthropic and community leaders in the D.C. area.
As co-chair of the 2017 Leukemia Ball, David DiLuigi, market president, of Greater Washington and Central Virginia at Wilmington Trust, an M&T Bank Co., has a personal connection with the event. As a member of the Leukemia Ball Executive Committee for the past three years, DiLuigi has seen first-hand the work LLS and its supporters achieve each year.
During the past three decades, volunteers have helped grow this event. In addition to the work of the Executive Committee, the Leukemia Ball Sponsors understand that supporting the communities in which they do business is crucial to their continued success, as well as the success of LLS. Wilmington Trust and M&T Bank sponsor the James L. Eichberg Lifetime Achievement Award, the Leukemia Ball’s most prestigious award recognizing individuals for the same exceptional commitment as its namesake, former Leukemia Ball Executive Committee member, who lost his battle with blood cancer in 2001.
“More than 25,000 people live with blood cancer in the Washington, D.C., region, a few of whom I know personally,” DiLuigi said. “By investing my time in LLS and helping raise funds through the Leukemia Ball, I know that critical research will ensure life-saving therapies.”
Along with Co-Chair Wayne Berson, CEO of BDO USA LLP, DiLuigi works with over 50 executives from the D.C. area to achieve a $3.5 million fundraising goal. Nearly 75 percent of all donations LLS receives go directly to its programs
“LLS recently committed $40.3 million toward 75 new grants that will fund an array of cancer research,” DiLuigi said. “Fundraising events, such as the Leukemia Ball, make that research possible and directly impact the lives of blood cancer patients everywhere.”
Entertainment during the ball will be provided by musician Andy Grammar and comedian Jim Gaffigan.
“This event is the perfect mix of a fun, elegant event and a meaningful night focused on LLS’ mission,” DiLuigi said. “It’s a fantastic night that celebrates the cutting-edge breakthroughs that are driving real results for cancer patients.”
When: Saturday, March 11, 2017, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001
For more information: Visit www.leukemiaball.org.
Related: Kevin Brancato and Bob Kipps Give a Market Outlook
