American Cancer Society hosts Discovery Ball

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The American Cancer Society will have its fourth annual Detroit Discovery Ball, which celebrates individuals touched by cancer and supports those working to find a cure, on Saturday, Nov. 11, at a new venue, the Fillmore Detroit.

The Detroit Discovery Ball, which will run from 6:30 to 11 p.m. at The Fillmore, is led by honorary Co-Chairs Eric Krupa, vice president of global engineering for Lineage Logistics, and Rachael Krupa, a therapist with Thumb Coast Counseling. They are Shelby Township residents.

The ball raises money for cancer research, advocacy, patient programs and services, according to the American Cancer Society.

Eric Krupa said he and Rachael are delighted to help raise funds for the American Cancer Society, as their lives, like so many others, have been touched by cancer.

“We are so proud that Lineage will be a part of this amazing event for the second year and look forward to seeing community members help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone,” he said.

Proceeds from the event will go directly to the American Cancer Society and its Road to Recovery program and transportation grants. ACS transportation programs provide options for people who have cancer who do not have reliable transportation or are unable to drive themselves.

The Detroit Discovery Ball’s emcees will be Christy McDonald, of WDIV, and Roop Raj, of WJBK. Its “mission speakers” will be Saunteel Jenkins, CEO of The Heat and Warmth Fund and a cancer survivor, and Dr. Eleanor M. Walker, director of breast radiation oncology and medical director of integrative services at Henry Ford Cancer.

Other honorees will include the Detroit Red Wings Foundation for the National Hockey League team’s years of fundraising support, and General Motors Executive Gary L. Cowger and his wife, Kay Cowger. Gary L. Cowger is being honored posthumously for his leadership with the Detroit Discovery Ball’s predecessor, the Cattle Baron’s Ball, which raised $16 million for the American Cancer Society.

Jenni Beamer, American Cancer Society senior executive director of Michigan, said that while every year is meaningful, this year’s Detroit Discovery Ball will have a heightened energy and meaning as they honor the legacy and life of Gary Cowger.

“There is a great deal of excitement with the new location, entertainment, and new activities. Those in the room with us will be change makers, leaders, activators, and positive influencers working to change the trajectory of cancer for the better,” she said via email.

The evening will also include live and silent auctions, a dinner and dancing.

The attire is “Detroit chic cocktail.” Valet parking is included with the ticket. An afterglow featuring live music by the Dan Rafferty Band will begin immediately after the Discovery Ball program. For more information visit detroitdiscoveryball.org.