When you live in a small, close-knit community like Delmarva, the chances of being affected by cancer in any shape or form is high, which is why a local woman is attempting to raise awareness.
Corrine Banks of Ocean City, Md. is running for Woman of the Year for the Eastern Shore Chapter. A close friend of Banks’ daughter was Boy of the Year in 2015 which is why Banks’ wanted to get involved.
“I was able to find out what was happening and find out more about the campaign through them, they asked me about possibly running and that’s what sparked it. A defining moment for me was at the gala when my 10-year-old daughter wanted to bring money for the society…she wanted to bid on an item but didn’t have enough money. She took her $20 and donated it, which is a lot for her. I wanted to do it for those struggling with it and to be a good role model for my daughter.”
Man & Woman of the Year is a competition put on by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. According to LLS, each year, in communities across the country, dedicated candidates engage in an exciting competition to earn the title of “Man & Woman of the Year.”
Each candidate holds fundraisers during the 10 week campaign to raise money for LLS blood cancer research in honor of children who are local blood cancer survivors, the Boy & Girl of the Year. Colby Fowle is currently the Girl of the Year, although she is in full remission. Tyler Von Hagel is the Boy of the Year and is currently undergoing treatment for T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
This year’s campaign started on April 1st and will end on June 11th with the LLS Gala. According to LLS, every dollar raised counts as one vote and the titles are awarded to the man and woman with the most votes at the end of 10 weeks.
One of Banks’ biggest fundraisers is the LLS Masquerade Ball held at Seacrets in Ocean City, Md on Friday, April 29 from 6-9 p.m.
Tickets for the event are $40 and include a wide assortment of appetizers from Seacrets menu with a specialty dessert from Cupcakes In Bloom. During the event, the band Side Project will make its debut on the Morley Hall stage, featuring DJ Wax as the guest MC.
Seacrets LLS Masquerade Ball 2014 (Courtesy: Dana Marie Photography)
While you snack on appetizers and desserts, you can check out the variety of auction items ready to take home and partake in the 50/50 raffle. The dress attire for the event is semi formal and masquerade attire is optional. If you do chose to dress up, you will have a chance to be awarded a prize for the best male and female costume.
The LLS Masquerade Ball was first held at Seacrets in 2014 and the proceeds exceeded $10,000. Banks’ says she hopes to raise even more this year.
For more information on the event and obtaining tickets, go to www.facebook.com/events/1695777234003181.
Seacrets LLS Masquerade Ball 2014 (Courtesy: Dana Marie Photography)
Seacrets LLS Masquerade Ball 2014 (Courtesy: Dana Marie Photography)
