The 21st annual Pink! gala hosted by the CommonSpirit Memorial Foundation raised $1.3 million to support breast cancer care in the region, organizers announced.
Chaired by Marc and Dr. Rachel Labovitz and Danny and Jennifer Waxenberg, the sold-out event drew 1,150 guests. All proceeds will remain in the local community, directly benefiting the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at CommonSpirit – Memorial Hospital.
With this year’s total, the Pink! gala has generated more than $9.4 million over its 21-year history to support breast cancer services, patient care and related programs.
“This extraordinary generosity will have a profound impact right here at home,” says Jennifer Nicely, president of the CommonSpirit Memorial Foundation. “Every single dollar raised stays local, directly benefiting our family, friends and neighbors by enhancing the vital health services and programs they rely on at the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center.
“This record-breaking success is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together for a cause so close to our hearts.”
Proceeds from the 2026 gala will be used in part to purchase two stand-up stereotactic biopsy machines, which will be housed at breast centers in Chattanooga and North Georgia. The new equipment is designed to improve patient comfort and access, particularly for patients with limited mobility. According to foundation officials, the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center will be the first and only breast center in the region to offer this technology.
Funds raised also will continue to support dedicated nurse navigators for breast cancer patients, mobile mammography coaches and college scholarships for children of breast cancer patients.
The Pink! gala is one of the foundation’s signature fundraising events and has become a major source of ongoing support for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and patient assistance programs in the area.
Next year’s Pink! gala is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 30. For information about tickets or sponsorship opportunities, call 423 495-7465 or visit SupportMemorialFoundation.org.
More information about the CommonSpirit Memorial Foundation is available at SupportMemorialFoundation.org. Details about the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center can be found at MaryEllenLocher.com.
Source: CommonSpirit – Memorial Hospital