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From left: Tina Knowles, Denise Rich and Gayle King Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation Since 1996, Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research has been a force for change. The organization has funded over $45 million in research grants to over 330 cancer scientists whose work focuses on finding preventions, treatments, and cures for patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and related blood cancers. And this past week at the organization’s 27th Annual Angel Ball, the evening’s emcee, Gayle King, reflected on what prompted the organization’s birth. It started with a promise between a mother, Denise Rich, and her daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who had been diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). “As Gabrielle was dying, she said to her mom, ‘You have got to start a charity so we can find out how we can beat this disease,’” said King. “She knew she was losing her life, and Denise made a promise to her that she would do that.” Four years after her cancer diagnosis, Gabrielle Rich Aouad passed away. She was 27 years old. Her mother was determined to keep that promise to carry on Gabrielle’s dream. She founded Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation. The research has focused on developing less-toxic treatments for blood cancers, and 88 cents of every dollar raised directly funds research. “I know deep in my heart that Gabrielle would be really proud,” says Denise Rich. “Her vow was not in vain.” Held on October 27 at Cipriani Wall Street, the black-tie gala—hosted by Denise Rich and her daughters Daniella Rich Kilstock and Ilona Rich Schachter—raised $3 million to support life-saving cancer research. The evening honored Tina Knowles, a breast cancer survivor dedicated to raising awareness. Knowles, who is Beyoncé’s mother, brought her 13-year-old granddaughter, Blue Ivy. Beyoncé later posted a photo of her mother and daughter on Instagram expressing her congratulations. Skye and Don Rufus Hankey, crusaders devoted to impacting change, were also feted. Amy Green, CEO and founder of The Green Vision Foundation, was honored for her leadership in anti-poaching, ocean restoration, climate change mitigation, and rainforest preservation. Throughout the years, the Angel Ball has been known for its evening of meaningful storytelling and unforgettable performances. As Knowles shared, she has been attending the gala for years. She loves and appreciates the Angel Ball because it supports such an important cause. Knowles spoke about how crucial it is to focus on cancer research and life-extending treatment. Plus, it’s an shindig she really adores. “The room really knows how to let their hair down and get the party started,” she said. “And besides that, it is filled with fierce fashion and entertainment.” Honoree Tina Knowles and Michelle Williams, who lovingly presented Knowles with her award. The Destiny's Child singer, who currently stars in Death Becomes Her on Broadway, spoke about Knowles' generous heart. "Miss. Tina saw something in a group of girls...and she believed in them..[she] made our costumes by hand. I can still smell the glue gun." Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation This year’s event was a pull-out-all-the-stops affair. Broadway star and Tony-nominee Montego Glover performed “Moon River.” Paul Russell sang “Say Cheese” and “Lil Boo Thang.” Grammy-winner Ja Rule got the crowd dancing to a medley of his hits, including “New York,” “Always On Time,” “Livin’ It Up,” and “I’m Real.” And guests were treated to a special appearance by soul goddess Patti LaBelle, who tore down the house with “On My Own” and “Lady Marmalade.” Guests light candles in honor of those living with cancer and those who have passed away. Guests were asked to paused for a moment of silent to reflect on healing and peace. Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation The night, sponsored by Lorraine Schwartz, Valmont, Armand de Brignac Champagne, Naviva, Rumor Rosé, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, was filled with poignant moments. Big Time Adulting podcaster and content creator Caitlin Murray shared how her son was diagnosed with leukemia when he was three and is now 11 and thriving. “He was in treatment longer than he had been alive at the time of his diagnosis,” she said. “His little body endured so many drug combinations, procedures, spinal taps… It was gut-wrenching to spend so much of our lives on a pediatric oncology floor.” Murray talked about how leukemia was once a death sentence for children, and now, because of funding and research, cure rates for childhood leukemia are over 85 percent. “This is not a miracle; this is a result of what money and science can do as a team,” said Murray. “It is for the families that were not as lucky as we were that I will never stop advocating or fundraising for cancer research. I cannot bear the thought of someone telling me my child is out of options.” As Gayle King reminded the audience, that kind of progress is what Gabrielle dreamed of—and what her mother helped to make possible. “I can’t think of anything more painful than losing a child. The natural order of things is that we are not supposed to go before our children,” said King. “And Denise turned her pain into purpose that has benefited so many others.” King told the packed room that when the world feels so heavy, nights like these are a reminder that people can come together and do good. “The cure may not have come in time for Gabrielle,” said King. “But because of her, lives are being saved every single day.” MORE FOR YOU LL Cool J and honoree Amy Green Marsin Mogielski Montego Glover sings "Moon River" at the Angel Ball Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation Patti LaBelle performs hoto by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation Editorial StandardsReprints & Permissions
