A Celebration of Sisterhood, Strength, and Hope

This year’s Spirit of Hope Luncheon was a powerful reminder of the importance of family and community, awareness and access, and the strength we find in supporting one another.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised more than $750,000 to help advance our mission of funding groundbreaking early-stage cancer research and providing vital patient support programs to those facing cancer journeys, free of cost, through Magnolia House.

We were honored to celebrate the Hersh sisters, Mindy Weiss, Jaye Eigler, and Dana Levine, and hear their inspiring story. As a survivor, Jaye’s journey was an important reminder that navigating a diagnosis looks different for everyone – some choose to process privately with a select few, others find solace in sharing on social media for the online world to see, but either way, one thing remains: support, in whatever form it takes, is vital. For Jaye, she found her village in family. Following her diagnosis, sisters Mindy and Dana embarked on their own shared journeys after discovering they are both BRCA gene mutation carriers. Together, they bravely chose preventative care. Underscoring what we at Tower know to be true, there is power in knowledge. Together, the three embody the very spirit of hope, and their story underscores the importance of knowing your family history, having access to genetic testing, and being equipped with the information and resources needed to make informed decisions about your health. Just as importantly, it highlights the invaluable role of family and support systems in navigating these deeply personal decisions and journeys.

The afternoon brought together hundreds of supporters, including notable guests Amy Yasbeck, actress (“Wings,” “The Mask”), and Cheri Oteri (“SNL”), united by a shared commitment to advancing cancer research and supporting those facing a diagnosis.

From the spirited designer handbag auction, featuring coveted pieces from Bottega Veneta, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, to the boutique shopping experience featuring premier vendor Veronica Beard's fall collection, the day was a celebration of generosity, connection, and hope.

My heartfelt thanks to the Magnolia Council for their extraordinary dedication in bringing this event to life, and to our honorees, guests, donors, and volunteers whose generosity and support made it such a success.

Together, we are helping fuel innovative cancer research, bringing promising breakthroughs closer to the patients and families who need them, while expanding access to the comprehensive care and the critical support they deserve.