EVENT SPOTLIGHT
On March 6, 2023 we gathered in gratitude at Old Stone Farmhouse and celebrated our 2023 donors, partners, and community leaders. We shared our plans to elevate Cancer Support VI this year and beyond as we strengthen our partnerships and enhance our services.
The evening was an intimate fete that brought together the heartbeat of Cancer Support VI, a tapestry of supporters as diverse as our beautiful island communities. As an organization, it was a time for pause to say “Thank You” dear donor for your gift, a lifeline to cancer patients in need in the Virgin Islands.
The evening was made possible by our partner, Bellows International, donating all of our wine and champagne. Special guest, Packy Gilbert, Owner of Leatherback Brewery donated Pink Soca, a collaborative rum seltzer specially canned for Cancer Support VI. Funds from the sales of Pink Soca territory wide during 2024 will go directly into the hands of cancer patients. Barb Saracena and team at Old Stone Farmhouse curated a beautifully crafted charcuterie for our guests to enjoy.
The sun set as our guests gathered, amongst them the warriors, and caregivers most impacted by cancer in the territory. Pastor Jeff Neveel greeted our circle of support with a pause, prayers and invitations to honor and celebrate those among us fighting this disease, while honoring those who have passed with prayer.
This ignited a powerful gift in hearing the voices of those warriors faced with the challenges cancer can bring. It was so inspiring that the Honorable Governor Albert Bryan got up to speak into the unwavering courage he witnessed from these testimonials and compassion he has for the Virgin Islander impacted by cancer. The Governor committed $500,000 to Cancer Support VI and our grant giving programs. He gave us an update on the groundbreaking efforts that are being made to re-open the Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute, scheduled for 2026. Additionally, he made a pledge to the community that if we raise another $500,000 he will again offer Cancer Support VI a boost of $250,000 in a federal grant to support individuals with cancer.
It didn’t take long for the applause and inspiration to breathe into the audience as they raised hands to also pledge their commitment to assure we leave no cancer patient behind.
Individually we are one drop, together we are an ocean – and together we will rise to meet this challenge and support raising over $1.25 million dollars in 2024.
