Jan 11, 2026 5 min read

By Haven Stetor

For nearly three decades, the Gold Together Gala has brought the community together to create an environment of hope and perseverance. That message continues this year as the American Cancer Society hosts the 2026 Gold Together Gala on Saturday, February 7, at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe.

This year’s theme is “There’s No Place Like Hope,” a message inspired by the magic of the classic film The Wizard of Oz while highlighting the courage and resilience of those affected by cancer.

“Even during the darkest times, there is always hope,” said Lauren Gnagey-Schmitt, whose family has been involved with the gala since the early years. “This event, and the people who support it, help provide hope for families and children when they need it the most.”

Proceeds from the event benefit the American Cancer Society’s Gold Together initiative, which funds pediatric cancer research and services. All funds raised through the Gold Together Gala are specifically designated to childhood cancer, something Gnagey-Schmitt said resonates deeply with the community.

“A lot of people have children, nieces, nephews, or kids in their lives,” she said. “You never want to see a child suffer. Knowing that these funds are going directly toward helping kids and supporting research that could lead to a cure is what makes this event so meaningful.”

The theming and dressy attire adds a sense of glamor to the evening, but the purpose behind the event holds a special place in the Gnagey family’s heart. The event began in 1996 as a small gathering for friends looking for a way to give back to the American Cancer Society. It later became deeply personal for the Gnagey family and continues in memory of Gnagey-Schmitt’s father, whose experience with cancer helped shape the mission behind the fundraiser. Over time, it has grown into one of the county’s most anticipated fundraising events, raising tens of thousands of dollars each year for pediatric cancer initiatives. Last year, the event raised over $60,000.

Gnagey-Schmitt said that the growth of the event has not changed its core message.

“It’s always been about being part of something bigger than yourself,” she said. “Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply showing up, every little bit matters.”

This year’s Wizard of Oz inspired decor will feature subtle nods to movie elements throughout the venue, creating an environment that feels festive without losing sight of the event’s mission. Bricks from the yellow brick road will be available for purchase in honor or in memory of loved ones, and a rainbow balloon arch will welcome guests to the event.The evening is meant to balance celebration with compassion, with themed decorations and moments of reflection throughout the program.

“At some point in the night, they’ll ask survivors to stand, or those who have lost someone, or those who know someone battling cancer,” Gnagey-Schmitt said. “By the end, the whole room is standing. It really puts everything into perspective and shows just how much cancer touches all of us.”

Behind the fundraising and celebration are families whose lives have been forever changed by pediatric cancer, including the Desmond family.

Sophia was just four years old when her family got the cancer diagnosis in 2018. What first appeared to be a routine illness became serious when Sophia developed a fever of more than 104 degrees. After being taken to a local hospital, doctors determined she needed to be transferred to a children’s hospital for further testing. There, her parents learned she had acute lymphoma leukemia.

Desmond noted, “I went into parent mode right away. You don’t really have time to think. You just do what you have to do.”

Sophia spent 87 days in the hospital undergoing treatment. Along with chemotherapy, she faced serious complications, including a fungal infection that required doctors to closely monitor her heart, spleen, kidneys, and brain. While the cancer itself went into remission after two months, Sophia continued chemotherapy for two and a half years as a preventative measure.

Throughout her treatment, Sophia’s father, Andy Desmond, noted that she never complained or asked why this was happening to her. She approached each day of treatment with strength and resilience.

“She just did it,” Desmond said. “She never cried. She never backed down.”

Today, Sophia is cancer-free and full of energy.She is now 12 years old, and she enjoys keeping up with her older brothers. Desmond said thatSophia’s hair has grown long and now reaches her lower back, adding that she “won’t let anybody cut it.”

Doctors have told the family that there is a 97 percent chance that the cancer will never return, something that Desmond credits to advances in pediatric cancer research and treatment.

“Medicine has come so far,” he said. “Almost every kid with this type of cancer survives now.”

Since Sophia’s diagnosis, the family has remained involved in cancer awareness and fundraising events, including participating in Relay for Life events through the American Cancer Society.

“Relay for Life means something different to us now. It’s personal,” Desmond stated.

For Desmond, those efforts represent more than just fundraising. They are a way to support the research and resources that helped give his daughter a future.

The Gold Together Gala will take place February7 beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are available at togethergala.givesmart.com.

The evening will include a cocktail hour, dinner, presentations and dancing.

Sponsored content brought to you by American Cancer Society.