Gilda’s Night at Rodes
Sold-Out Event Raises $344,000
Published On: December 28, 2011
Even if you are unfamiliar with Gilda’s Club Louisville, you have likely seen the beckoning red doors on Baxter Avenue that welcome individuals suffering from cancer, along with their families, for free support and education. “Consider it a place that works to make sure “no one—child, man or woman, all nationalities—would ever have to go through cancer alone,” as described by founding board member Lindy Street.
“I was going through the experience of breast cancer and became friends with two other women, Sharon Receveur and Susan Moremen. Both were also traveling that same journey,” said Street. “Susan’s brother from Nashville called her and told her he had found a new ‘project’ for her . . . Gilda’s Club. The rest is history.” Joining over 20 other Gilda’s Club affiliates in North America, these dedicated women and the founding board members created a safe place for those who might otherwise have gone through their fight with
cancer alone.
Gilda’s Night at Rodes For Him & For Her raised over $344,000 for cancer support and programs at Gilda’s Club Louisville. Models graced the curved runway, which led through the tent to glass doors that served as the only barrier between the 350 guests and the clothes that waited inside. Drinks flowed and hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed before a delicious meal was served, celebrating the work done by Gilda’s Club. “It is inspiring to hear the stories of recovery and assistance from Gilda’s, and the annual event in my opinion is one of the best events in Louisville,” shared Joanne O’Malley, Gilda’s Night at Rodes event committee member.
“How can you say ‘no’ to an organization that provides so much?” exclaimed Patty Johnson, who also serves on the event planning committee. “I’ve had a number of family members and friends who have been affected by cancer. This community is so fortunate to have such an amazing resource. Joanne is a dynamo, as are the other committee members.”
There are various opportunities to help serve the clients of Gilda’s Club. Offering to decorate for the holidays, gathering a group together to host a meal before a group session, and helping watch the children of clients in Noogieland are only a few of the ways you can contribute to the good that Gilda’s does everyday for the people who have found it a haven. gildasclublouisville.org
—photographs by josh miller
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