This past Friday, we gathered at the Hilton Tysons Corner for our Annual Special Love Gala, and what a night it was! With over 300 guests in attendance, the evening was filled with warmth, excitement, and a powerful sense of community, all in support of children with cancer and their families.

Our guests enjoyed an array of wonderful food and engaging entertainment while bidding on an exciting selection of silent auction items. The entertainment included a live band, a stilt walker, face painter and magician to entertain the guests! One of the highlights of the evening was the wine pull, where attendees could try their luck at winning an exclusive bottle of wine. However, the true heart of the evening lay in the opportunity to meet and hear from our young Special Love Camp Ambassadors. These remarkable children and young adults shared their stories of resilience and how Special Love has touched their lives, offering everyone a chance to hear firsthand the incredible impact of our work. 

NBC4 meteorologist and Special Love Board member, Chuck Bell, served as our emcee, guiding us through the night with his signature energy and enthusiasm. 

Each year, we are privileged to honor those who have made an enduring impact on Special Love’s mission through our Love Awards. This year, we proudly presented the Circle of Love Award to Dave Smith, a pillar of our organization who has dedicated nearly 40 years of service to Special Love. Dave’s commitment to the children and families has been unwavering, and his work has touched countless lives. The Circle of Love Award represents the support and love that sustains our families throughout their cancer journeys, and Dave embodies that spirit. 

We also presented the Randy Schools Light of Love Award to Special Love Board member, and Parent’s Committee Chair, Shari Fisher for her tireless work on behalf of the parents, seeing that we meet their needs through programs designed specifically for them, as well as the children. The Randy Schools Light of Love Award is given to those whose compassion and commitment to Special Love and its camp families shines as an example for all. Their love is a beacon that lights the dark path of the childhood cancer battle. 

One of the most moving moments of the night was hearing from our keynote speaker, Claire Lovejoy, a former Camp Fantastic camper and cancer survivor. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 8, Claire shared her inspiring journey, and the vital role Special Love played in preserving her childhood, even during the darkest times. She spoke about the joy, normalcy and feeling of family she found at Camp Fantastic, where she could escape the burdens of cancer and simply be a kid. Claire emphasized how Special Love’s programs not only support children with cancer but their entire families, offering experiences that cancer often tries to take away. Her powerful story reminded us all of the true impact of our work and the importance of preserving childhood innocence in the face of illness. 

It was a magical evening, full of hope and generosity, reminding us all of the power of community and compassion. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the night a resounding success. A special thank you to all of our sponsors who helped make this night happen. Together, we are making a difference for children and families facing the unimaginable challenges of pediatric cancer. 

Stay tuned for more details about the incredible evening and how you can continue to support Special Love’s mission.