Source: DBCC
Dover, Delaware — On March 7, 2026, the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) hosted its annual Lights of Life Gala at Bally’s Dover. This year’s “Diamonds & Denim” theme corralled over 400 attendees for a night packed with dazzling entertainment, including a new twist, the Diamond Pull Experience! Benefitting local communities, the annual gala brings together survivors, community members, advocates and supporters for an unforgettable evening celebrating survivorship, honoring lives lost, and raising critical funds to support individuals and families affected by breast cancerthroughout Delaware.
Linda Marquess, DBCC Board President, was so grateful to the many supporters who showed up for DBCC. She shared, “The DBCC Lights of Life Gala means so much to me. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, I know all too well the physical and mental challenges this disease brings. This event celebrates strength, resilience, compassion, and love in the cancer community. It is also our opportunity to thank all of our supporters who generously donate their time, talents, and financial resources to fuel our work.”
DBCC’s Lights of Life Gala is a celebration of life and giving, made possible through the generosity of the Delaware community. DBCC extends a special thank you to the event’s three presenting sponsors, Bayhealth Cancer Center, Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, and Royal Prime Events. The event would not be possible without support from these key sponsors. In addition, DBCC recognizes the immense support from L&W Insurance Agency, a repeat sponsor of the event, for generously offering space for DBCC to store auction items and hold planning meetings.
The event’s Signature Survivor Showcase featured eight local Delaware breast cancer survivors – Wanda Williams, Graciela Cordova, Suzanne P. Moriarty, Robyn Zagone, Tracey Mikriis, Bernardette Maxwell, Peggy Schoen, and Heather Seramone. These survivors, all with unique life experiences, are united by the earth-shattering experience of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. The Survivor Showcase allows them a moment to shine and share their story as they take the stage, escorted by local medical professionals, many of them as the doctors who provided their life-saving care. This moving moment highlights the importance of breast cancer awareness, education, early detection, and access to care.
DBCC’s CEO, Francesca Vogel, reflected on the impactful event: “DBCC’s annual Gala has grown into a deeply meaningful celebration of hope, resilience, and community. Gathering with the partners and supporters who fuel our mission—healthcare teams, screening providers, fundraising allies, community leaders, and dedicated individuals from across the state—is profoundly moving and reminds us of the extraordinary impact we can achieve together. Each person in the room strengthens our resolve, renews our gratitude, and reinforces our commitment to saving lives and standing beside every survivor on their journey.”
Attendees were delighted to go home with Nothing Bundt Cakes donated by the Wilmington – Brandywine store and macarons donated by Brooke’s Macarons, based in Dover, DE. Additionally, premier sponsors Bally’s and Bayhealth both provided a gift for each guest!
Many attendees leaned into the theme, sporting cowboy boots, hats, and diamond-studded attire. Master of Ceremonies, Chelsea Clark, and DJ Brian K. Hall provided the perfect atmosphere for this rootin’ tootin’ party. DBCC is grateful for the support of DE Lieutenant Governor Kyle Evans Gay, who was able to attend this year’s event. Senator Dave Wilson and David Skocik, repeat auctioneers at the gala, encouraged attendees to purchase live auction items, including an African Safari trip and tickets to the County Music Awards, all benefitting DBCC. Friend of DBCC, Ciro Poppiti, perfectly captured the value of the event: “DBCC means courage to me. That’s why I’ve always wanted to be around this organization. This event, it’s a celebration of courage and the human spirit.”
Funds raised will sustain essential programs including survivorship support groups, outreach education, transportation assistance, interpretation services, and other resources that offer hope, healing, and dignity to patients and survivors. Community support is vital in ensuring these life-changing services remain accessible to those who need them most.
About Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition
The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) is a 501(c)(3) organization offering statewide programs and services. The mission of the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, Inc. is to empower its community by raising awareness of breast health issues and increasing access to care through outreach, education, and support services, to facilitate early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
Its vision is to create a caring community where barriers to breast cancer screenings are removed and all persons at risk served by DBCC have access to quality care and treatment. DBCC will ensure each individual diagnosed receives resources to become a thriving survivor, armed with the knowledge and support needed to conquer this disease.
Headquartered in Wilmington with offices in Kent and Sussex Counties, the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s programs reach diverse communities to deliver messages that address their unique concerns about breast cancer and early detection. Recognizing the barriers of language, culture, and economics, DBCC trains community advocates through their Peer Mentor Program, as well as works to help educate and encourage women and men to take responsibility for their health through breast health presentations and community health fairs. In addition, the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition helps those with low incomes and those with little or no insurance receive free or reduced-cost care.
For more information about the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, visit the website at www.debreastcancer.org
