Careity Rocks Pink coming to JC
Apr. 11—An evening filled with compelling testimony of survival, along with exclusive experiences, will be held April 27 as Careity hosts "Careity Rocks Pink" presented by the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, as well as The Baker Foundation, in Joshua.
Careity, which has provided direct cancer patient services in Burleson and Johnson County since 2003, is bringing the event to Johnson County for a second year, transitioning from a luncheon to a fun evening. All net proceeds directly benefit Burleson and Johnson County cancer patients and early detection services.
"Volunteers for this event had so many great ideas, they could not all fit within the limitations of a luncheon," Careity co-founder and CEO Lyn Walsh said. "'Careity Rocks Pink' will be an evening filled with lots of fun that will be turned into critical support for those facing cancer. It's not to be missed."
Bringing the keynote address will be Texas Christian University adjunct professor Merrill West.
A dancer, teacher and choreographer based in New York City for 20 years, West's choreographic work at Casa Mañana includes "Annie," "Carrie," "Grease," "Tuck Everlasting," "Sweeney Todd," "Madagascar," "Big Bad Musical," "The Emperor's New Clothes" and "The Wizard of Oz."
She also serves as associate director and choreographer to award-winning director and choreographer Karma Camp at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
In addition to serving as adjunct faculty for Theatre TCU, West has also taught master classes for College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, New York University, Towson University, Abilene Christian University, Oklahoma City University and the Radio City Rockets.
As a performer, West was one of the world-famous Radio City Rockettes for eight seasons and appeared on Broadway in the Tony Award winning revival of "42nd Street."
She was also seen in the national tour of Irving Berlin's "White Christmas." She has appeared on the "Today Show," "The David Letterman Show," "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" and the Tony Awards broadcast. She is a featured performer on Broadway's "Lost Treasures" DVD from PBS. Her regional theatre credits are numerous and include a Helen Hayes Award for her appearance in the ensemble of "Hello Dolly!" at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
She holds a Bachelor of Music Degree from New York University and is a member of both the Actors Equity Association and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.
West will bring the inspirational story of her own cancer journey and the impact Careity has had on her treatment.
"We are honored to have Merrill share her story with many who are eager to learn more about the effects of cancer and how Careity can directly provide the services and support they need," Careity co-founder and President Beverly Branch said. "Those who support by attending 'Careity Rocks Pink' can rest assured their support will go directly to people in Johnson County. "This organization was born from a true calling to help women, and men, through their cancer journey and beyond and we welcome the support of our friends in Johnson County."
The event will also memorialize the work of community leader Aly Engstrom, a community leader and past CEO/President at United Way of Johnson County, who passed away March 15.
Engstrom was a 2002 ATHENA Leadership award winner, and the ATHENA Society of Burleson paid respects to her on their Facebook page.
"She was a driving and influential force in the formation of The ATHENA Society of Burleson," the post reads. "Aly was passionate and determined that the dynamic group of women who had received the award to come together and support a cause. Aly being a cancer survivor at the time, was passionate about supporting cancer patients in our community. Cancer care support become a large part of The ATHENA Society of Burleson's mission.
"Aly's strength, innovation, passion, laughter and smile will be missed. Thank you, Aly, for the role you have played in each of our lives but in all the lives you have touched in our community."
The dinner begins at 6 p.m. April 27 at the James Event Center in Joshua. A limited number of VIP packages are available and will include an early cocktail hour that will feature a custom "Careity Rocks Pink" fusion, as well as premium seating.
"VIP tickets are going to be a highlight as they will also include a hat with a customization kit from Bumble & Brim Hat Bar and a custom gift bag with all kinds of goodies," Walsh said.
Sponsorships with reserved seating are also available. In addition to the amenities of premier seating, sponsors will receive promotional opportunities and recognition at the luncheon.
Careity Foundation was founded by Walsh and Branch in 2003. The nonprofit organization provides direct care for cancer patients and families.
With 10 locations in North Central Texas, Careity annually provides more than 7,800 services. Services include cancer navigation, dietician services, nutritional supplements, mammograms, diagnostics, biopsies, surgeries, psychotherapy, social workers and chaplain services, as well as medical massage therapy and acupuncture.
To learn more and purchase tickets, visit Careity.org.
