The importance of maintaining regular mammograms and early detection even during the COVID-19 pandemic, was the message of this virtual event. It was a message that registered clearly with me as I had just made a trip for that procedure which I, like many I am sure, had delayed due to Covid. Memorial Hermann reinforced that message several times during Memorial Hermann’s annual Razzle Dazzle luncheon on Oct. 8, 2020. This year’s luncheon, which moved to a virtual format due to health and safety precautions, was themed “We’ve Got You Covered” as a reminder that cancer doesn’t wait for COVID-19 and that Memorial Hermann breast care centers across the city are following strict safety protocols to ensure women can continue to safely access mammograms. Chaired by well-known Houstonians Lynn Wyatt and Tony Bradfield, who reflected on his decision to co-chair for the second year in a row, in honor of his Mother, who passed away from breast cancer at the age of 54, on his 25th birthday. “I am honored to be part of this opportunity to share the importance of early detection and screening for all women,” said Bradfield.
“We live in a world where one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, so we know timely diagnosis is critical. This luncheon serves as a reminder that even in a year like this, it’s so important that women maintain their yearly mammograms and can safely do so at Memorial Hermann,” said Memorial Hermann Foundation CEO and executive vice president Anne E. Neeson.
Honoree for the luncheon was Dr. Yvonne Cormier, for her longtime support of the luncheon and her renowned medical career. The luncheon garnered more than $425,000 for early breast cancer detection and outreach programs at Memorial Hermann including the Bobetta C. Lindig Breast Care Center at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center.
In recognition of the virtual world of fundraising events this fall, the 30-minute luncheon program produced by Ward & Ames Special Events kicked off with a pre-taped segment of a glamorous woman preparing for Razzle Dazzle in a pink dress by local designer Chloe Dao and jewelry from Tenenbaum Jewelers, all before settling down to enjoy the program with a Razzle Dazzle commemorative champagne flute. Following remarks by Neeson, local singer Nicole Hurst sang “Seasons of Love” as the luncheon invocation. Hurst, who has toured with Kelly Clarkson, Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake and many others, was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 31. More of Houston’s musical talent was showcased as Grammy Award-winning vocalist Steve Tyrell made a surprise appearance to reflect on his personal connection to breast cancer before singing “That’s What Friends Are For.”
Andre Leon Talley, Vogue Magazine former Creative Director
In a surprise treat for luncheon attendees, a highlight of the program was a video featuring well-known philanthropist, social icon and event co-chair, Lynn Wyatt interviewed by Houston Chronicle society writer Amber Elliott on her life, home, travels and popular fashion choices over the years. In addition, fashion journalist and former American editor-at-large of Vogue magazine André Leon Talley made a surprise virtual appearance to congratulate his friend Cormier on being honored. In keeping with popular Razzle Dazzle traditions, luncheon supporters purchased raffle tickets for a chance to win a $10,000 Tenenbaum Jewelers’ gift certificate and enjoyed an online auction.
As a reminder of the importance of regular breast cancer screenings, attendees heard from Chealci Eddins, a young mother who was diagnosed with breast cancer immediately before COVID-19 hit Houston. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Eddins was successfully and safely treated by Dr. Jessica Jones, a UTHealth breast oncologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Cancer Center-Texas Medical Center, and is now transitioning back to work.
Since its inception in 2010, Razzle Dazzle has generated more than $3.8 million to support breast cancer patients and their families through the Bobetta C. Lindig Breast Care Center. Proceeds from this luncheon have provided funding for cutting-edge diagnostic equipment using the latest technology. These diagnostic tools allow detection of tumors at their earliest stages, thus giving patients the best chance for survival. For more information on breast cancer programs at Memorial Hermann, visit womens.memorialhermann.org/specialty-services/breast-care or call 713.242.3480.
This fun-filled event day was kicked-off with a drive-by parade of cars and supporters of the luncheon at co-chair Tony Bradfield’s Tenenbaum Jewelers. Each supporter was invited to drive-by and pick up their specially designed gift packets with many of the necesseties for watching-from-home virtual events.
