St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness’ Life is Your Journey

St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness hosted its Annual Gala at the Edward Jones Corporate Headquarters Atrium, Saturday, March 28, 2015. Proclaiming  that “Life is Your Journey”, the theme reinforced the importance that guests should live each day of their life fully and, particularly,  “Live It Out Loud!”. The event featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a sit-down gourmet dinner, and abundant inspiration sandwiched between the silent/live auctions and needs appeal. The 2015 signature gala raises money for major ovarian cancer research grants and support of educational programs and community awareness outreach.

No sooner than you arrive, you realize the passion and compassion that motivates this charity. Many guests have lost a loved one to ovarian cancer or some other form of the illness. Consequently, they are committed even more to maximize SLOCA’s reach.

While the silent and live auctions play a role, the inspirational stories really captivate the mood of the crowd. The 2015 Teal Spirit Award, given annually to a deserving member of the community, went to the Salsich Family, who lost a mother and daughter to the disease.

After Denise Salsich and her daughter, Heidi Salsich Hoehn, passed away, their family spent several years making jewelry to generate funds for the cause. In 2013, they disbanded the Salsich-Hoehn Foundation and donated $20,000 to SLOCA. Heather Salsich Lawyer accepted the award on behalf of her family and spoke about her mother and sister’s zest for life and determination to overcome the odds.

Sandy Sullivan, an ovarian cancer survivor, followed and talked about her struggle with the illness and her support system of family and friends who enabled her to fight and still do. A video presentation then depicted survivors and others personally affected by ovarian cancer that led to the fund a need appeal.

KLOU’s Julie Tristan served as the mistress of ceremonies, and  Rob Weiman kept everyone’s “paddle” moving. Ellen Levine chaired a committee of board members and dedicated volunteers.

The St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness comprises a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization. It is committed to increasing ovarian cancer survivorship by promoting awareness of early warning signs and standards of care, funding ovarian cancer research, and supporting survivors.