The Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation (CCBF) hosted its annual “Breakthrough Ball” fundraising gala on Tuesday evening, October 28, 2008 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The Foundation raised over $1.5 million for treatment and research into the causes of childhood cancers and blood diseases. Proceeds from this benefit will ensure that the CCBF continues its exceptional mission to provide the very best up-to-date treatments for young people, as well as engage in breakthrough research that will hopefully lead to improved care and cures.
Swizz Beatz wrote and produced a soon-to-be-released song entitled “One Day,” an inspirational song dedicated to the children who are being treated for cancer and blood diseases. A very heartwarming video of Beatz’s visit to the clinic, and the time he spent with the children, was shown at the event.
Charles Grodin once again served as master of ceremonies. NFL great Tiki Barber, last year’s honoree and honorary co-chair, returned to award this year’s CCBF Breakthrough Spirit Awards. This year’s honorees were: artist, musician and producer, Swizz Beatz; actor/activist Steve Guttenberg; major league star and Yankee analyst Al Leiter; and Laureen Kelley, founder, Save One Life, Inc.
Foundation chairperson Les Lieberman said, “I am overwhelmed by the support and the incredible turnout on behalf of the thousands of children with cancer and blood diseases who are treated each year through the foundation, as well as our dedicated physicians and researchers. I thank everyone for joining us. Thanks, too, to Charles Grodin, Tiki Barber, and all the people who helped make the 2008 gala the best ever.”
The evening also featured Lightning Lou Christie, the 60s star, who sang his hit “Liightning Striking, Again” with an acommpanying skit with Kim Garfunkel, wife of Art Garfunkel who was also at the gala
