Leukemia Ball Set for March 21

Leukemia Ball Co-Chair Kimberly Russo is looking forward to an even bigger event this year as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society prepares for its 33rd annual signature fundraising event on March 21.

The ball will be at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. The entertainment lineup features headline comedian John Mulaney, local music legends The Legwarmers and special guest and violinist Damien Escobar. Guests will also enjoy live and silent auctions and a Mercedes-Benz drawing.

“There will be lots of chances for attendees to enjoy good company, delicious food and bid on auction items, all while donating to a good cause,” Russo said. “Every year, the event continues to grow, and I look forward to the 2020 Leukemia Ball being the biggest and most successful yet!”

Russo, who is also CEO of The George Washington University Hospital, which is the 2020 Mission Sponsor for the event, has been involved with LLS for several years and knows from personal experience what it is like to support individuals fighting leukemia.

“Living through this experience with them gives me a deep understanding of the impact that this disease has on so many people,” she said. “Fighting cancer is extremely difficult, and that is why organizations such as LLS are so important.”

The hospital has for the past two years participated in LLS’s annual Light the Night Walk with employees participating in fundraisers for the event. In fact, hospital staff have been responsible for most of what GW Hospital has been able to donate.

“On both a personal and professional level, I see the negative and significant impact that cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma have on all who are touched by it,” Russo said. “It is vital that we support the individuals and their loved ones who are fighting these cancers.”

The Leukemia Ball has raised more than $65 million for LLS over the more than 30 years it has been held. The fundraising goal this year is $3.5 million, up from the previous year’s $3.2 million. The funds go toward, among other things, research into treating and preventing cancer.

“Organizations such as LLS are moving the needle in making this happen and that is why it is so important to support their efforts,” she said. “The research efforts of LLS not only assist in fighting blood cancers, but also crosses the boundaries of fighting other cancers that impact so many lives.”

In addition to attending the ball, individuals may get involved by donating directly online, contributing to other LLS events and fundraisers, volunteering, or encouraging their workplaces and organizations to become corporate sponsors.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit https://leukemiaball.org/attend/.