The 20th Anniversary of the Go Pink Luncheon
Was A True Celebration of Survivorship
The event was spectacular in every sense. From the new Pink Ribbon Garden to the stunning display for Couture for a Cure, Bras with a Cause, along with three grand prize raffles and champagne ladies, attendees immediately sensed this was unlike any other luncheon before.
An emotional opening featured 20 courageous breast cancer survivors taking the stage, accompanied by a poignant reading of the poem “The Battle Within” by current breast cancer patient Jen Zawadzki. Dr. Louise Morrell welcomed guests via video, followed by Mark Larkin, President of the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation, and Carrie Rubin, Go Pink Luncheon Chair, who warmly greeted everyone.
Throughout the day, heartfelt thanks were extended to event sponsors, partners, and the talented creators behind the Couture for a Cure, Bras with a Cause collection. A highlight was our Call to the Heart, a live fundraising initiative for the new Lynn Cancer Institute’s Bridge to Care program. Maureen Mann, Vice President of Boca Raton Regional Hospital’s Eugene M. & Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute, introduced the program, followed by a moving video featuring current LCI cancer patients Simi Sapir and Jen Zawadzki and BRRH philanthropists Arline and John McNally. Thank you to everyone who gave from their hearts to support this vital program!
Finally, we welcomed our keynote speaker, Robin Roberts, Co-Anchor of Good Morning America. For the past twenty years, the Freyda and Edward Burns Enhanced Living Initiative has generously sponsored this segment of the luncheon. Robin shared her deeply personal and brave journey of surviving breast cancer and being diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, infusing her message with empowerment and humor. She graciously introduced her wife, Amber Laign, who also faced her own battle with breast cancer, adding another layer of inspiration to the event.
Celebrating survivorship and 20 years of the Go Pink Luncheon was an unforgettable day that raised over $2 million—an all-time record! This achievement would not have been possible without Carrie Rubin’s leadership and the dedicated efforts of the Go Pink Luncheon Committee, our sponsors, and all who donated to and attended the event. We are truly fortunate to have such fantastic support.
