Anna's Angels Gala

By

Despite a tough economy, hundreds of loyal Caryites dined and danced on March 13 at the Prestonwood Country Club grand ballroom to raise $96,000 for Down syndrome and leukemia research at the annual Anna’s Angels Gala.

“The night was a wonderful celebration and a testament to the power of friends and family coming together to help individuals with Down syndrome,” said Michelle Pfeiffer, director of the Anna’s Angels Foundation.

To date, the organization’s total funds raised are nearly $650,000.

“Over the years we have been able to fund many research grants due to the support. I am tremendously proud of the research efforts at Duke and their ability to invest these dollars wisely,” Pfeiffer said. “The state of the art Biobank is key to the future of Down syndrome research, and I look forward to seeing it mature into the National Down Syndrome Biobank.”

Dr. Priya Kishmani, a professor of pediatrics and division chief of medical genetics at Duke University Medical Center, gave the keynote speech.

ABC 11 Eyewitness News Anchor Steve Daniels was emcee of the event’s live auction and has been for the past six years. Attendees enjoyed a gourmet buffet, dancing and bidding on items in the silent and live auctions. Anna’s Angels is preparing for its next event — the Fifth Annual Anna’s Angels 10 Miler and 5 K Runs on Sept. 26. Last year, the race drew 750 runners, and event organizers are preparing for 1,000.

For more information, visit www.annas-angels.org.