A Night of Stars, Music and Meaning: Angel Ball Raises $3 Million for Blood Cancer Research

New York’s Cipriani Wall Street welcomed an extraordinary gathering of entertainers, philanthropists and supporters on October 19 for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation’s 28th Annual Angel Ball. With powerhouse performances, heartfelt tributes and an inspiring spirit of generosity, the evening raised $3 million to advance blood cancer research.

Hosted by Foundation co-founders Denise Rich and her daughters, Daniella Rich Kilstock and Ilona Rich Schachter, the black-tie celebration honored Lynda Carter, Nicola Verses and Dionne Warwick for their humanitarian and philanthropic contributions.

Behind the evening’s glamour was a deeply personal mission: honoring the memory of Denise’s daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who passed away from acute myelogenous leukemia at just 27. Her legacy continues through the Foundation’s support of scientists working toward more effective, less toxic treatments for blood cancers.

Celebrating Extraordinary Women

This year’s honorees brought remarkable careers and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Singer, actress and philanthropist Lynda Carter was recognized for her advocacy and dedication to raising awareness of blood cancer research. Entrepreneur and philanthropist Nicola Verses was celebrated for her charitable work and lasting community impact, while legendary six-time Grammy Award winner Dionne Warwick was honored for her extraordinary legacy.

Deborah Cox served as emcee and delivered a moving performance of Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All.” Taylor Dayne and Shaggy brought their signature energy to the stage, while DJ M.O.S. and DJ Kiss kept guests on the dance floor.

A Powerful Story of Love and Hope

One of the evening’s most emotional moments came when Kelly Leach, a New York City mother, shared her family’s experience with blood cancer.

Her husband, Todd Day, passed away in October 2024 from complications related to treatment for secondary lymphoma, diagnosed seven years after his initial battle with stage III diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. At the time of his second diagnosis, the couple had been pursuing fertility treatments.

Following Todd’s passing, Kelly chose to carry forward their dream of a family, welcoming their daughter, Chloé, nearly one year later. Today, she advocates for safer, less toxic cancer therapies, sharing their story to support other patients and families.

Her words brought the evening’s purpose into sharp focus, reminding guests of the lives and futures behind every research breakthrough.

Generosity Takes Center Stage

Star Jones led a spirited paddle raise that generated more than $340,000. Artist Fer Da Silva added a meaningful creative element: donors contributing $1,000 or more received Corazon de Fer canvases, while those giving $10,000 or more received original heart sculptures.

The live auction, led by Seth Herzog of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, featured exceptional travel, jewelry and wellness experiences. Offerings included a journey through Peru with Belmond, jewelry from Lorraine Schwartz, a stay for four in two private bungalows at Four Seasons Resort Naviva in Mexico, and seven days at the Lucia Magnani Health Clinic in Italy.

A Star-Studded Guest List

Among those joining the celebration were Alec and Hilaria Baldwin, Carol Alt, Kathy Hilton, Melissa and Joe Gorga, Sandra Lee, Tiki Barber, Laura Geller, Peter Thomas Roth, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Simone I. Smith, Steve Gold, Erin Lichy, Gigi Paris and Isaac Boots, alongside many other supporters.

Kathy Hilton served as Dinner Chair, Elizabeth Elting as Honorary Chair, and Skye Hankey, Tina Knowles, Ofira Sandberg, Lorraine Schwartz and Simone I. Smith as Gala Chairs.

The evening’s sponsors included Lorraine Schwartz, L’AGENCE, Valmont and Four Seasons Naviva, with beverages from Armand de Brignac, Hunky Dory by Kathy Hilton, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, LALO Tequila and Rumor Rosé. Haute Living served as media partner, and Windsor Limo provided celebrity transportation.

Guests also departed with Fabletics gift bags featuring beauty, skincare and lifestyle offerings from brands including Grande Cosmetics, Peter Thomas Roth, Valmont, Laura Geller, Dr. Lara Devgan, Furtuna Skin and more.

There’s Still Time to Support the Cause

The celebration’s impact continues beyond the ballroom, with two online auctions open through October 22.

The Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation Charitybuzz auction features experiences including a table for four at Rao’s, Bryan Adams concert tickets and a meet-and-greet, and luxury stays at destinations including Albany in the Bahamas, The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach and Round Hill in Jamaica.

Art lovers can also explore the Angel Ball Art Auction, featuring original works by artists including Mr. Brainwash, Fernanda Laverera, Bradley Theodore, Halim Flowers and Jill Cunniff.

A Legacy That Continues to Change Lives

Since its founding in 1996, Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research has awarded more than $47 million in grants, supporting early-career scientists studying leukemia, lymphoma and related blood cancers. On average, 88 cents of every dollar raised directly funds research.

The Angel Ball’s lasting significance lies in that commitment: bringing people together to help promising scientific ideas become treatments that offer patients more hope and healthier futures.

To learn more, donate or follow the Foundation’s work, visit gabriellesangels.org and follow @GabriellesAngels on Instagram and Facebook.

Photo credit: Getty Images for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation.