A sell out black tie ball in Caerphilly has raised more than £3,800 for Cancer Research Wales.
The Sunflower Charity Ball, organised by Caerphilly couple Dawn and Mike Evans, was held at the Masonic Hall on November 12.
The evening kicked off with a Champagne reception followed by a Latin inspired performance from members of Elite Dance School, and Dawn and Mike’s daughter, Lowri and her partner Dale Jones.
Two talented singers from the Bedwas Theatre group, Charlotte Smith and Katy Lee Farr also performed throughout the evening. A charity raffle and auction featured signed sporting memorabilia and added a significant amount to the total raised.
Dawn was inspired to organise the ball after Lowri and Dale were involved with similar charity events last year and to remember a close friend, Angela Gallacher, who died of bowel cancer in 2005.
Dawn said: “Lowri and Dale really enjoyed taking part the events last year. I also wanted to do something to commemorate Angela and raise money for Cancer Research Wales to help them in their battle against this dreadful disease.
“Organising The Sunflower Ball just felt like it was the right thing to do and I’m so glad I did it. It went really well and I was overwhelmed with the kind support shown by local people and businesses who were so generous with their auction prizes and donations.”
Just two weeks after deciding to host the event, Dawn’s dad, Brian, was diagnosed with bowel cancer. After a long course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment at the Velindre Cancer Centre Brian underwent major surgery. The operation was successful and Brian now attends the Royal Gwent Hospital for monitoring as an outpatient.
Dawn said: “The treatment that my father received from Velindre and the Royal Gwent was second to none.
“I have seen firsthand how cancer affects people and I know that the money raised will be well spent by Cancer Research Wales.”
Liz Andrews, charity director for Cancer Research Wales, said: “We really appreciate Dawn and Mike’s effort, and to host the event in memory of a close friend really brings home what Cancer Research Wales is all about.”