3rd Annual Leukemia Ball

Nets over $138,000!

Charleston, SC (February 2008) - The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society held its 3rd Annual Leukemia Ball on Saturday, February 16, 2008, at the Embassy Suites Convention Center.  Over 425 guests enjoyed a Mardi Gras themed evening, including wonderful food, live and silent auctions, and music by the East Coast Party Band as funds and awareness of the progress being made to end blood cancer were raised.  The event netted over $138,000 to support the research and patient service programs of the Society.  

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Society's annual Partners In Progress awards to a deserving Charleston family-Marilyn, Ellen, and Barry Hoffman-  for their contributions and service that have impacted the Society's mission to find a cure for blood cancer:

Ellen and Barry became involved with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in August, 2000 shortly after learning that their father, Howard, had been diagnosed with stage four  lymphoma.  They decided to join the Society's Team In Training program along with Dr. Betsy Davis, who had been key to their father's initial diagnosis.  On a cold, rainy day in December of that same year, all three completed the Kiawah Full and Half Marathon, in honor of Howard.  Ellen and Barry were overwhelmed and inspired by the experience as they crossed the finish line, cheered by their supportive and proud parents.   Several TNT events later, they have raised awareness and thousands of dollars for blood cancer research and patient assistance through the generosity of their friends and family.   Barry has mentored and coached TNT for several seasons. Ellen serves on our Leukemia Ball planning committee.

Marilyn is a dynamic business and community leader.  She is very active in the Jewish community having held numerous leadership positions  through the years.  She also has served on various hospital and volunteer boards including Ronald McDonald House, MUSC and Hollings Cancer Center, all of which have rooms dedicated to Howard's memory.  Marilyn and her late husband created a solid foundation of giving back to their community.  The Society is most appreciative that Marilyn has embraced our relentless work.

Even though Howard Hoffman passed away in June of 2004, his legacy lives on through his philanthropic family who is passionate and driven by the Society's mission to find a cure for blood cancer. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society applauds  Marilyn, Ellen, and Barry for their commitment to our mission and especially to the continued success of our Leukemia Ball. 

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