Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer (DDF) hosted the 5th Annual DREAM BIG Oceanside Jazz Bruncheon on Sunday, October 27, 2019, at Wild Thyme Oceanside Eatery in Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida. With approximately 122 guests in attendance, the event raised more than $22,200 to help fund stomach cancer research and provide resources and support to patients, families, and caregivers worldwide.
The afternoon featured a silent auction and cocktail hour hosted by In-Kind Sponsor Tito’s Handmade Vodka, a buffet spread of delicious breakfast, lunch, and dessert items, and a beautiful ocean view. Guests also enjoyed live saxophone sounds and smooth jazz music to create a relaxing and melodic atmosphere. The event was held in honor of DDF’s late Founder, Debbie Zelman, and other stomach cancer advocates who passed away this year including, DDF North Carolina East Chapter co-founder Tony Leonard, California Monterey Chapter co-founder Branny Carrasco, and South Carolina Chapter co-founder James McBrayer.
Fellow stomach cancer survivor, advocate, and New Jersey South Chapter leader and Board member Melani Vincelli traveled from New Jersey to give the Bruncheon fundraising appeal.
“This year has been extremely difficult as we’ve lost a great number of patient advocates who meant so much to our mission,” said Andrea Eidelman, DDF Chief Executive Officer. “We are so grateful to Melani for continuing to be such a strong voice for those still affected by this disease, and we are grateful to have her represent them as she gave the plea for this event.”
DDF Board Vice President Cynthia Peterson and Board members Marsha Levy and Tami Shatanofco-chaired this year’s event for the first time. “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with my co-chairs, our committee, and the DDF staff to continue this tradition,” said Cynthia Peterson. “We appreciate everyone who supported this event and helped us in continuing towards Debbie’s dream.”
This year’s sponsors included Gold Sponsor Genentech; Silver Sponsor Cleveland Clinic Florida; Bronze Sponsor Marsha and Alan Levy; and Friend of DDF Sponsors Bienenfeld, Lasek and Starr, Cynthia Peterson, Diana Rahaghi, Julie and Jeff Cornfeld, Lash & Goldberg, LLP, Miami Cancer Institute of Baptist Health South Florida, and Robin Moselle. For more information about DDF, visit www.DebbiesDream.org or call (954) 475-1200.