At the annual Fiesta Ball on May 4, the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Young Supporters Board will celebrate the May 5 Mexican holiday alongside a celebration of the center’s research efforts.
Cinco De Mayo, the annual holiday that celebrates Mexico’s 1862 victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla, will be the theme for the evening, with Happy Catering serving up Mexican hors d’oeuvres at Haven from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The event benefits young cancer researchers at UAB by jump-starting their research, with the goal of leveraging their research findings to compete for additional federal grants.
“It is critical we support the next generation of scientists. Young cancer researchers are at the beginning of their careers and must compete for funding with more established scientists,” said Dr. Michael Birrer, director of the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. “They often lack the necessary body of research data to be competitive. If their work is not funded, many of these bright young minds will leave research for more lucrative fields, taking the next potential breakthrough discovery with them.”
In addition, a silent auction will benefit cancer outreach efforts focused on eliminating cancer disparities in Alabama.
Tickets can be purchased in advance for $35 or at the door for $40. Valet and self-parking will be available, and ride-sharing is encouraged.
For more information, visit uab.edu/fiestaball or contact Alex Huffman at 934-1603 or [email protected].
—Emily Williams
