2012 Discovery Ball Megan MacKenzie, Inspiration Award winner
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hanks to the generous support of so many in the Rochester region, the annual Discovery Ball has become the single largest fundraiser for the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, providing vital support for the center’s commitment to providing world-class care and research to the greater Rochester community and beyond. This year’s Ball, held in April and chaired by cancer survivors Greg and Sheri Smith, was a huge success, raising $650,000 for the Wilmot Cancer Center. The evening included live entertainment that showcased various local musical acts, including the Eastman School of Music, Brasso Profundo, and electric violinist, Perrin Yang, from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Inspiration Award to breast cancer survivor, Megan MacKenzie. The Inspiration Award is the Wilmot Cancer Center’s highest honor and is presented
annually to an individual who has helped cancer patients and their families have hope for the future. As chronicled elsewhere in this issue, Megan has made it her mission to raise funds for seed grant research and help fund the needs of the Comprehensive
Above (left to right): Matt Weber, Tom Corell, Cathy Dobrowal, Debbie Smith, Breast Care Jennifer LaChance, Leo Murphy and Peter DeBraal Center at the Wilmot Cancer Center. Enlisting Below (left to right): Donna & Jim Hammer, Sandy & Mike Wilmot her friends and family, she has been the catalyst behind such events as ‘Girls Hit the Ring: Knock out Breast Cancer,’ and ‘Hiking Colorado for a Cure.’
She has managed to raise more than $100,000 through her efforts.
ultimately raised over $120,000 for cancer research. The brief evening program included remarks from the Smiths, University of Rochester President Joel Seligman, URMC CEO Above (left to right): Sandi Bishop, Don Rhoda, Bill Bishop and Pamela Bradford C. Berk, M.D., Rhoda At left: Phil & Marilyn Wehrheim, Susan & Bob Kessler Ph.D., as well as Steve McCluski, chair of the Wilmot Cancer Center Board. In her acceptance speech, Megan More than 850 friends, patients, staff spoke of the difficult moments and supporters enjoyed a wide-array of during her care and how the support of delicious desserts and danced the night friends and family helped her to see a light away to music played by Jimmy C’s Music at the end of her treatment tunnel. Megan Machine in the Club Discovery area. The asked guests to light candles at each table 2013 Discovery Ball will be held May 11, at and pledge their support for the Wilmot the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Cancer Center. The room glowed and
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