Inside the 31st Annual Leukemia Ball

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) held its 31st annual Leukemia Ball on Saturday, March 10, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, raising some $3 million in support of LLS’s goal of a world without blood cancers.

“The Leukemia Ball remains one of Washington, D.C.’s greatest nights out in support of a fantastic cause, and I am thrilled we were able to help LLS move closer to a day without blood cancers,” said Dave DiLuigi, Leukemia Ball Co-Chair and Regional President at Wilmington Trust.

Washington-area business leaders came out in droves to support LLS, with nearly 2,000 guests enjoying entertainment by comedian Jeff Foxworthy and singer/songwriter Phil Vassar, as well as an extensive silent auction, dinner, and Mercedes-Benz Raffle. The night’s program included recognition of the 2018 James L. Eichberg Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Neil S. Kishter, founder of the Kishter Group at Merrill Lynch.  The evening also featured a moving mission moment by Myeloma survivor Kelvin Yates and his daughter Mariah, highlighting how LLS has supported them during their journey.

“Kelvin’s story illustrated the impact that LLS has on blood cancer patients and their families, and inspired guests to support LLS’s mission to their greatest capacity,” said Rob Copito, Leukemia Ball Co-Chair and Vice Chairman of CBRE. The response from guests was swift, resulting in an amazing “Fund The Fight” event, raising more than $204,000 in 15 minutes.

*Images credit Bruce Buckley Photography for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society