This year, the Angels Ball lit up Manhattan’s Financial District with pink lights, marking their official return to New York City since the pandemic. Founder, songstress and philanthropist Dennis Ritchie welcomes guests to the 26th annual event and auction honoring Gabriel’s Angel Foundation. The foundation was established following the devastating loss of Rich’s second daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who died after a long battle with Hodgkin’s disease and leukemia. Rich shared with the audience that her ultimate wish is to create a foundation dedicated to cancer research – which has raised over 35 million dollars since its inception.
Held at Cipriani’s on Wall Street and packed full of supporters and donors. Many familiar faces greet each other, a clear sign of the foundation’s reach, welcoming its supporters year after year. The list of participants included designers Tommy Hilfiger, Margaret Josephs, Lee Daniels, Star Jones and Mayor Eric Adams.
Singer Shoshana Bean opened the night with a performance and a warm welcome to cancer survivor Samantha Mann. Guests were dressed to impress, but most importantly, they were ready to donate; $2.8 million was raised by the end of the evening. Auction items include art by Mr. Brainwash, Lorraine Schwartz earrings and a Spanish getaway. This year’s Angel Ball also honors John Paulson and Michael Franos, longtime supporters of Rich’s mission.
Finally, the room was lifted from the seat to the dance floor by the one and only Chaka Khan. The saga begins with “tell me something good” and ends effortlessly with “not nobody.” Gabrielle’s Angels Foundation works year-round to support research, medical professionals, and scientists in the fight for a cancer-free world, and the Angels Ball is another opportunity to celebrate life, loss, and work together.
