CHARITY SPOTLIGHT
The Barrow Ball Proceeds from the Barrow Ball support a wide variety of research projects at Barrow Neurological Institute, providing funding for innovative scientific studies. The Barrow Women’s Board, which organizes the event, was established in 1965 to raise funds for research and to foster interest in supporting the fledgling neuroscience center. The group’s first fundraiser was a ball at Casa Blanca Inn on New Year’s Eve. The event netted $26,000. The 2011 Ball is Jan. 15 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort. Shan Francis and Angela Melcher are spearheading the event.
What is the focus of the 46th Barrow Ball? We are celebrating 46 years of supporting this internationally renowned center by continuing to focus on the work being done by the team at the institute. From the latest in research and therapies to the consistent quality of care, their work speaks for itself. Barrow patients are treated with respect, compassion and extraordinary care. We are honored to be a part of it all.
Is there a Barrow Women’s Board special project this year? This year’s special project is the Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center. The life expectancy of adults diagnosed with the most common types of brain tumors has not changed in decades. The center will work to change that reality. Many of us have had our lives touched in some way by the presence of a glioma in a friend or family member. We feel that by supporting this legacy project of Dr. Spetzler we will be able to positively impact the future of brain tumor patients.
What’s special about this year’s ball? This year in particular, we are pleased to have John Dawson as our underwriter for the second consecutive year. This generous man is truly our Women’s Board “angel.” His personal dream of making sure that people do not suffer from the devastating kinds of diagnoses that bring them to Barrow is reflected in his major contribution to this event. We are privileged to honor his dream and participate in making his dream a reality.
Why is this event considered such a tradition here in the Valley? We have many supporters who return year after year, giving from their hearts and from the knowledge that funds from this ball go to very specific areas of neurological conditions, including brain and spinal tumors, cerebrovascular conditions and neuromuscular disorders. Our supporters see the progress being made by the BNI and want to ensure that progress continues.
For more information call 480.429.8290.
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