By Emily Williams
Journal intern
A fundraiser this month will to only raise money for cancer research, it will also honor the life of a local artist.
On Aug. 23, the American Cancer Society of Birmingham will host its largest fundraising event, the 34th annual Hope Gala, which also recognizes a Birmingham metro resident or family affected by cancer.
In addition to supporting local cancer support centers, this year’s Hope Gala will honor the life of the late Toni Tully.
The wife, mother, grandmother and prominent local contemporary artist lost her battle to cancer in 2010.
Tully not only contributed to the community through her artwork but also through her involvement with the Birmingham Art Association, the Birmingham Museum of Art’s Collector’s Circle and the Women’s Club of Birmingham.
Her creations helped her gain a reputation as one of the pioneers of Birmingham contemporary art, best known for her painted fabric installations. Three of her paintings, donated by the Tully family, will be up for auction at the Hope Gala.
Over the past 19 years, the Hope Gala has raised more $4.7 million to support the mission of the ACS to eliminate cancer and diminish patient suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.
Money raised by the event will contribute to ACS cancer research and patient support programs throughout the Birmingham metro area, including Road to Recovery, Look Good Feel Better and the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge.
The Hope Lodge, a 33-room facility that grants free lodging to cancer patients and caregivers, depends on donations to provide high-quality service to its residents.
Through donations and fundraising events–including the Hope Gala–the American Cancer Society is able to provide free housing, transportation and many cancer support groups for all who stay at the lodge.
This year’s Hope Gala, hosted by Lois Bradford and Pratt Austin-Trucks, will begin at 6 p.m. with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction followed by a seated dinner at 8 p.m. As the meal comes to a close, a live auction will begin, showcasing merchandise ranging from jewelry to vacation packages.
Featured items up for auction include original artwork by Arthur Price, Carolyn Goldsmith and Julie Wray Maiolio; transportation to and from dinner in New Orleans on a private plane; and vacations to such locations as St. Lucia, Antigua, Panama and Barbados.
For guests who do not wish to participate in the auction but want to contribute to the charity, a Call-To-Action table will be set up during the event to collect donations.
At 9 p.m., the event will transform into the “late party,” featuring music by the Maleman Showcase Band. The event will wrap up at midnight.
American Cancer Society officials said they expect more than 500 guests to come together for an evening of remembrance and celebration to support the eradication of cancer.
For more information, visit www.hopegalabirmingham.org or call 930-8883.
