Highlights

On May 3, 2006, Pittsburgh's most influential community leaders, top Broadway performers and celebrities celebrated with more than 1,000 friends and supporters, raising $8.2 million in sponsorships and contributions for patient care at UPMC Cancer Centers and cancer research at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. This amount included $2 million from the Arnold D. Palmer Charitable Trust for a new initiative in cancer prevention; $1 million from Tom and Sandra Usher to support melanoma research; $1 million from the Hillman Foundations to fund innovative cancer research; and $1 million in an unrestricted grant from the PNC Financial Services Group. Together with other contributions, these generous commitments helped to create the largest and most successful event in the history of the Hillman Cancer Center.

The event was hosted by Honorary Celebrity Chair Arnold Palmer, and Honorary Chairs Elsie and Henry Hillman. General Chairs were Sandy and Tom Usher, and Sharon and Jim Rohr. Presenting sponsors were PNC and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Highlights of the evening included Broadway performer Liza Minelli, as well as aerial acrobatic artists and entertainment that mirrored the four seasons, signifying hope for cancer patients now and in the future. Celebrations of cancer survivorship and heartfelt reminders of special people who lost their battles with cancer underscored the critical nature of the Hillman Cancer Center's mission. Event production was led by Diann Bruni, in collaboration with The Paradiso Group, All in Good Taste Productions, An Original Occasion, and Epic Entertainment.

Special thanks to all of our generous sponsors, organizers and supporters of the event.

Photos from the event now are available: view photos (Link No Longer Available) from the evening and get information on ordering prints (Flash plugin required). In addition, exclusive souvenirs – exquisite glassware created by celebrated artist Michael Weems – now are available for purchase (View a brochure and order form). Proceeds from souvenir sales benefit cancer research and patient care at the Hillman Cancer Center.

Many sincere thanks to everyone who made it possible for “Seasons of Hope…A Future Without Cancer” to give rise to the kind of enthusiasm that causes exciting things to happen – things that make it possible for us to achieve a world without the life-threatening impact of cancer.

return to top