Pink Martini Party Annual Cancer Fundraiser

When our beloved neighbor, Dee Rustic, lost her brave battle against Cancer it seemed the entire community was in mourning. Fighting back the tears, one neighbor shared how much he missed Dee and how she had saved his life when he was severely depressed. Hearing stories about this wonderful woman and seeing the grief stricken faces, of her husband and friends was heart-breaking. I vowed to make a difference.

     My unmitigated passion to support not only a cure but provide sustenance, camaraderie and hope for those dealing with cancer or who have loved ones dealing with the disease led to my decision to create an annual signature event that would give caring people a vehicle to support this critical cause. I felt that the concept of a Pink Martini Party would be ideal means to achieve my goals of building a strong “cancer-conscious” community with energy and desire to make a difference in the fight and to raise money for research and a cure.

     It was my first attempt at fundraising so I designed the event to be so unique, so “over-the-top” and so broadbased, it would have residual impact throughout the rest of the year. Reaching out to the Community, the response I received was overwhelming. The Heritage Isle Grand Ballroom was very graciously donated for the evening. As I spread word of the upcoming event and asked directly for participation, people from all professions contacted me to contribute 25 gifts for the silent auction. Kim Zipper, MD and Roger Bassin, MD donated thousands of dollars in cosmetic procedures and spa treatments, a jumpstart fitness program from Health First Pro Health & Fitness, beautiful gift baskets, dinner gift certificates to local restaurants, car detailing, week-end-get-away and more.

     Space Coast Health Institute supplied 3 massage chairs and students donated their time to provide guests with free massages. A neighbor collected door prizes which included wine and jewelry. In the background there was live soothing calypso music. Guests danced their way through the night and formed a conga line. A local newspaper sent a photographer to video the event so it could be viewed on U tube and a picture was posted in a local magazine.

     There were three vendors tables which included Pretty with a Purpose, Premier Designs Jewelry and Viera Financial Investments for shopping pleasures and celebrating survival. Neighbors donated their time to collect tickets and sell 50/50 chances. The tables were elegantly dressed with white tablecloths and a single pink flower center piece. Over 200 people attended the event enjoying gourmet foods, beverages and Pink Martini’s. An ACS guest speaker attended the event. Thousands of dollars were raised to benefit the ACS and the people it serves. The American Cancer Society awarded me a Pace Setter Certificate for my efforts.

     Due to the success and “chatter” I am poised for this year’s event to be bigger than last and I am committed to increasing our success each year to come. It is a continuous focus of my attention in terms of getting people committed to the cause. The size and stature of the event I will hold every year is certain to grow as more and more people are attracted like magnets to such a celebratory event that makes everyone feel confident that this is a battle we will win.

     The Pink Martini Party this year is scheduled for Wednesday October 5, 2011 in the Heritage Isle Grand Ballroom. A local neighbor and her daughter will be playing the piano during a lovely cocktail hour. The invitations have been printed. Neighbors are volunteering to help in any way they can and the entire community has already been excited with anticipation as my “Save the Date” invitations have been viewed by the community.

     Susan Swanson, Senior Real Estate Specialist withViera Realty will be hosting “The Pink Martini Party” in the Grand Ballroom at theHeritage Isle Clubhouse, Wednesday, October 5, 2011 from 6:00PM until 8:00 PM. Enjoy delicious food, entertainment, silent auction, and cocktails while learning about thenewest breakthroughs in Cancer Treatment from Dr. Richard M. Levine, President and CEO of Space Coast Cancer Centers and Space Coast Cancer Foundation. 

     A minimum donation of $20 is required to help raise money for Cancer Awareness and enable the American Cancer Society to help people stay well, recover from cancer, find cures and empower people to fight. Please come enjoy the music and socialize with your friends and neighbors. Imagine theincredible difference we can make together!

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information or to sponsor the event, please contact Susan Swanson by calling 321.987.9600.