Breast Cancer Research Foundation Raises Unprecedented $10.3 Million

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) recently held its highly anticipated annual Hot Pink Party at The Glasshouse in New York City. This remarkable event witnessed a groundbreaking achievement as it raised an astounding $10.3 million, providing crucial support to BCRF’s global team of 255 exceptional scientists who are dedicated to advancing life-saving breast cancer research.

Dazzling as ever, the event was graced by the presence of Elizabeth Hurley, the esteemed Global Ambassador of The Estée Lauder Companies‘ Breast Cancer Campaign, who impeccably hosted the evening. However, the real showstopper of the night was the legendary Diana Ross, who delivered a captivating performance that will forever be etched in the memories of all fortunate attendees. With her timeless classics such as “I’m Coming Out,” “Stop in The Name of Love,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Ross enthralled the audience, leaving them with an unforgettable experience.

The Hot Pink Party also featured a series of prestigious awards, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the fight against breast cancer. BCRF’s Board of Directors Co-chair, Kinga Lampert, received the inaugural Evelyn H. Lauder Spirit of Philanthropy Award, acknowledging her outstanding dedication and support. Margaret Flinter was honored with The Roslyn and Leslie Goldstein Unsung Hero Award, presented to her by Nicole Seagriff.

The event attracted an array of notable guests, including prominent personalities from various fields. Among them were Candace Bushnell, Lydia Fenet, Nina Garcia, Desiree Gruber, Jenna Leigh Green, Arianna Huffington, Jill and Harry Kargman, Monique Lhuillier, Gretta Monahan, Emma Myles, Paul Shaffer, Anastasia Soare, Ingrid Vandebosch and Jeff Gordon, and the celebrated Vera Wang, among others. Their presence not only added glamour to the occasion but also underscored the significance of raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research.

Breast cancer has recently emerged as the most prevalent form of cancer worldwide, emphasizing the critical need for extensive research and advancements in the field. BCRF takes immense pride in being the largest private funder of breast cancer research globally and holding the highest rating among breast cancer research organizations in the United States.

The success of the Hot Pink Party was made possible thanks to the generous support of Rafanelli Events and Winston Flowers, who played a vital role in creating an exceptional event experience. The honorary co-chairs, Sir Elton John and David Furnish, along with Judy and Leonard Lauder, and Anthony von Mandl, provided invaluable support to ensure the event’s resounding success. Additionally, the gala steering co-chairs, including Dee and Tommy Hilfiger, Kinga Lampert, and Aerin Lauder, demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the cause.

The lead gala co-chairs, Jody and John Arnhold, Tatianna and Peter Cancro, Valentine and Patrick Firmenich, Amy and Brian France, Roslyn Goldstein, Terri and Jerry Kohl, Lori Kanter Tritsch and William P. Lauder, Adrienne and Dan Lufkin, Jeanne Sorensen Siegel and Herbert J. Siegel, Marilyn and Jim Simons, and Candace King Weir, played instrumental roles in ensuring the event’s success. Their dedication and support greatly contributed to the remarkable fundraising achievement.

Gala co-chairs, including Leslie Bluhm, Sandra Brant, Patsy and Patrick Callahan, Susan Crown, Mary-Ann and Fabrizio Freda, Nina Garcia, Marjorie Reed Gordon, Louise Camuto Grieder, Mellody Hobson, Shelly and Howard Kivell, Michael Kors, Jane Lauder, Jo Carole and Ronald S. Lauder, Laura and Gary Lauder, Dominique Lévy, Jane and Daniel Och, Margaret Paul, John Paulson, Bryan Rafanelli, Lois Robbins and Andrew Zaro, John Rosenwald, Arlene Taub, Alice and Thomas Tisch, Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch, Merryl and James Tisch, Ingrid Vandebosch and Jeff Gordon, and Vera Wang, all made indispensable contributions to the event’s overwhelming success.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder, recognizes that breast cancer is a complex disease that demands extensive research efforts. As the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide, BCRF invests in exceptional scientific minds and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration to explore every facet of the disease, from prevention to metastasis. This comprehensive approach accelerates progress and brings us closer to the answers we urgently seek.

Images: Courtesy of Getty Images