Latin Glamour Transforms Cancer Research: It’s a Whole New Star-Studded Fundraising World

What: The Alcides & Rosaura Diniz Foundation (ARD Foundation)

Where: The Astorian

PC Moment: Only a year old, the Brazilian-based foundation that raises funds for genome cancer research at internationally renowned cancer centers is introducing serious Latin glamour to cancer research fundraising. Founded by Brazilian businesswoman Ana Paola Diniz, the nonprofit was introduced last September on the big stage of New York City where the first U.S. gala was held. The star-studded evening at Cipriani earned $500,000, most of which went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with a portion going to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

That contribution was enough to purchase a state-of-the-art gene sequencing machine. The equipment will be operated by Brazilian research scientist Dr. Karina Eterovic, associate professor at M.D. Anderson.

Diniz founded the non-profit after the loss of her father to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2006. Thus, her foundation focuses on discovering the genetic causes of specific cancers, understanding how genes contribute to the disease, and use that understanding to help develop better prevention and treatment strategies.

The Houston evening was expected to raise $400,000 for M.D. Anderson’s genome research. Honored was Dr. Funda Meric-Bernstam, chair of the department of investigational cancer therapeutics and professor in cancer medicine and surgery at M.D. Anderson.

Beyond the very glamorous guests and supporters, many invited by sponsor Roberto Cavalli, the night featured a performance by Brazilian singer/songwriter Aline Muniz.

Who:Victoria’s Secret model Lais Ribeiro, LA’s Roberto Cavalli director Brad Smith, Karen and Mike Mayell, Carlos Cruz, Claudia Martinez, Charlton Hunley, Emilia Pedersen, Esther Schattan, Boris Eterovic, Christina Sacco, Luiz Guilherme Diniz Petroni, Chris Huston, Jennifer Hovas, Heitor Drapier, Ella Rose Arnold, Sachin Jaggi, Sabrina Parlatore and Patricia Hoffmaster.