Leukemia Ball nets over $135,000

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society recently held its third annual Leukemia Ball at the Embassy Suites Convention Center.

More than 425 guests attended a Mardi Gras-themed evening that included food, live and silent auctions, and music by the East Coast Party Band as funds and awareness of the progress being made to end blood cancer were raised. The event netted more than $135,000 to support the research and patient service programs of the society.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the society's annual Partners In Progress awards to Marilyn, Ellen and Barry Hoffman for their contributions and service that have impacted the society's mission to find a cure for blood cancer.

Ellen and Barry became involved with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in August 2000, shortly after learning that their father, Howard, had been diagnosed with stage four lymphoma. They decided to join the society's Team In Training program along with Dr. Betsy Davis, who had been key to their father's initial diagnosis.

On a cold, rainy day in December of that same year, all three completed the Kiawah full and half marathon in honor of Howard. Ellen and Barry were overwhelmed and inspired by the experience as they crossed the finish line, cheered by their parents.

Several events later, they have raised awareness and thousands of dollars for blood cancer research and patient assistance through the generosity of their friends and family. Barry has mentored and coached the Team in Training for several seasons. Ellen serves on the Leukemia Ball planning committee.

Marilyn, Howard Hoffman's widow, is a business and community leader who is very active in the Jewish community, having held numerous leadership positions through the years.

She also has served on various hospital and volunteer boards including Ronald McDonald House, MUSC and Hollings Cancer Center, all of which have rooms dedicated to Howard, who died in June 2004.