Walking the Runway for Cancer

Last Friday, twelve local gentlemen took to the runway to raise money and awareness for Hope Cancer Resources. Our annual fundraiser, the Bill Fleeman Gentlemen of Distinction, is a combination fashion show, live auction, and award presentation. This year, by all accounts, the evening was a beautiful and moving testament to the work we do for cancer patients and the community of Northwest Arkansas.

The room was breathtaking, with elegant decor created by the team of Goddard Design Group and some awesome volunteers. We especially loved the entryway created with striking urns, birch trees, and dainty yellow orchids.

After our hosts, Jeff and Eloise Davis, said a few words and welcomed attendees, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal and additional comments from Roger Collins, CEO & Chairman of the night's Presenting Sponsor - Harps Food Stores and Price Cutter, and Brian Holt, President & CEO of Hope Cancer Resources.

Baumans Fine Clothiers was our Fashion Sponsor again this year, and models were dressed in the latest looks from HUGO BOSS. Our models all made the most of their turns on the runway - some even inspired cheers and catcalls - and their fans waited along the way waving signs to make them feel like superstars.

After the show, our live auction kicked off with some amazing packages: Spa treatments at Hull Dermatology & Aesthetics, a trip to San Diego for four including a Photo Safari at the zoo, a David Yurman watch from Blakeman's Fine Jewelry, a customized dinner with Chef Antonio Avona, and a week in an Escapes! condominium were only a few of the ten packages that were auctioned. Our auctioneer, Richard Clifton, did a fantastic job making the auction exciting and fun for everyone.

Finally, we watched a video that brought the whole evening home and reminded us what the evening was really all about. Esther was helped by our patient assistance programs - specifically our social workers who offer individual, confidential counseling. She has quite a story to tell.

People like Esther are the reason we do what we do. But not only do we serve patients going through cancer treatment - we also work in the community through our health educators, bringing education and awareness to our community in an effort to reduce the incidence of cancer in Northwest Arkansas. To learn more about how you can support our programs, please visit our website.

To all those who attended, sponsored, donated, and volunteered... thank you for helping us provide compassionate, professional cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow.