"The Hope Affair" Unites Renal Community, Celebrates Fight Against Disease
The American Kidney Fund's fourth annual national gala, "The Hope Affair," takes place at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 17 at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in the District.
The event, themed "All Things Are Possible," will honor three remarkable individuals: a dialysis patient, a caregiver and the American Kidney Fund's "Calendar Kids" art contest winner. For the second year in a row, Washington's FOX 5 news anchor, Shawn Yancy, will serve as the evening's emcee. This year's featured keynote speaker will be Alan Hobson, Mount Everest climber and cancer survivor.
"The Hope Affair is a special time for the American Kidney Fund as we bring together the national renal community and policymakers to celebrate inspiring individuals who bring our mission to life," said LaVarne A. Burton, president and chief executive officer of the American Kidney Fund. "This is a time to celebrate those who inspire us to continue in the fight against kidney disease and an opportunity to highlight the programs and services supported by funds raised through the gala."
The evening's honorees are:
• 'Hero of Hope' Award: Eric Dolby, Sr.
•'Caregiver of the Year' Award: Debbie Nutt
•'Calendar Kids Cover Artist' Award: Amelia Rowniewski
In his keynote address, international bestselling author and worldwide adventurer Alan Hobson will share his personal experience that demonstrates all things are possible. Three years after reaching the summit of Mount Everest, Hobson was diagnosed with an aggressive blood cancer and given less than a year to live. He not only survived, but thrived.
Funds raised through The Hope Affair contribute directly to the programs and services provided by the American Kidney Fund. The eighth-leading cause of death in the United States, kidney disease affects an estimated 31 million Americans, with millions more at risk.
For more information about the American Kidney Fund, visit www.kidneyfund.org.
