Angel Ball Brings In $3 Million for Blood Cancer Research
Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research held its 28th Angel Ball at Cipriani Wall Street and raised $3 million. The evening honored the memory of Gabrielle Rich Aouad and highlighted the foundation’s $47 million in grants for blood cancer research over three decades. Deborah Cox hosted, and Shaggy and Taylor Dayne performed.
The 28th Angel Ball took place at Cipriani Wall Street and generated $3 million for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research. The organization memorializes Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who died at 27 from acute myelogenous leukemia; her mother and two sisters established it to fulfill her wish for a leukemia-focused foundation. Over three decades, it has awarded more than $47 million in blood cancer research grants.
The gala combined a live auction with performances by Shaggy and Taylor Dayne, while Deborah Cox served as host. Guests lit tapered candles at their places to remember Gabrielle and others facing cancer. Kelly Leach recounted her husband Todd Day’s illness, and Lynda Carter, Dionne Warwick, and Nicola Verses were among those honored.
The Angel Ball’s $3 million haul could help sustain research into less toxic blood cancer treatments, potentially benefiting patients and families who face limited options. Public tributes from survivors’ relatives and celebrities may deepen awareness and encourage donations to smaller foundations. By linking a memorial story to tangible research funding, the event may also show how celebrity-driven philanthropy can shape public attention around cancer care, though its broader effect will depend on how those funds are used and communicated.