Thirty Year Celebration
Milestone Anniversary for Celebration of Life
The milestone event pays tribute to the three founders, Shirley Lavorato, Karen Fanoe and Jeri Olivas; celebrates cancer survivors, honors lives lost and recognizes the incredible impact the fundraiser has had in the community supporting cancer patients and their families.
Two of the women walking the runway this year share a special bond as fraternal twins. At the young age of 27, the Soledad sisters never imagined they would also share a cancer diagnosis. Araceli and Angelica Villegas underwent aggressive and potentially life-saving treatment after they were diagnosed with breast cancer and carriers of the BRAC1 gene.
The journey started last year when Araceli was breastfeeding her youngest of two sons and became suspicious of a lump. At first, she brushed aside her concerns, thinking perhaps what she felt was a milk duct. Advanced imaging and a biopsy later confirmed the worst. “The first thing I thought when I heard the word cancer is that I’m going to die,” says Araceli Villegas, Celebration of Life model. “When they told me the BRAC gene was generic, I knew my sister had to be tested as well.”
Without any noticeable signs, Angelica’s breast cancer turned out to be even more advanced. The sisters both received medical treatment at Salinas Valley Health Cancer Center of Excellence which included chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy and a double mastectomy.
The Villegas twins share their difficult cancer journey to help raise awareness about the disease, early detection and listening to your body when you feel something isn’t right. They join two dozen other local cancer survivors on Friday, April 12 as part of the Thirty-Year Celebration. “The American Cancer Society has done so much to help support us and other cancer patients,” says Angelica Villegas. “We want to give back and hope to inspire others to support the cause and the important impact the Cancer Society has on the community, cancer research and patients like us.”
The Thirty-Year Celebration takes place as The American Cancer Society projects the U.S. will see more than two million new cancer diagnosis in 2024 - a record high. Over the years, national data has shown diagnosis rates are rising among people younger than 50. From 2000 to 2019, the rate among this group jumped nearly 13%.
Since its inception, the afternoon gala event has raised more than two million dollars. With the help of generous sponsors, local businesses and individuals, the Celebration of Life hopes to raise more funds and awareness. There is still time to buy tickets, donate and bid on auction items. Go to MtyFashionShow.GiveSmart.com or call 831-621-5444 for more information.
What: The American Cancer Society Celebration of Life
When: April 12, 2024
Time: 10:30am-2:30pm
Where: Monterey Marriott
More Information: MtyFashionShow.GiveSmart.com or call 831-621-5444
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