March 12th, 2013 
The Prevent Cancer Foundation celebrated the Day of Woman along with its honorary partner, the Italian Embassy at its annual Spring Gala on March 8. Known in Italy as Della de Donna, the 8th of March is Italy’s International Women’s Day.The evening also marked the Foundation’s 27th year and its annual salute to the international community and its efforts in the fight to prevent cancer by raising awareness and research funds. Nearly $1.3 million was raised to support the foundation and its efforts.
Annie Todah, Dianne Kay, Representive John Dingell (Photo: J Fishman)
The National Building Museum was transformed into an Italian piazza with tables and decor designed by David Tutera, longtime friend of the organization and board member.
Joann Piccolo chaired the gala for the second year in a row and she thanked the audience saying, “It has been an honor to serve as the Gala Chair for two years and to do my small part in helping with the Foundation’s quest to detect and eradicate this disease.”
Former Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher was honored as this year’s Cancer Champion. She accepted the award presented to her by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) saying, “I dedicate every day of the rest of my life to the fight to end cancer.”
Italy and the Italian Embassy was well-represented by the Honorary Patrons his Excellency, the Ambassador of Italy to the United States Claudio Bisogniero and Mrs. Laura Denise Bisogniero. Ambassador Bisogeniero said, “Collaboration on an international scale is crucial for international prevention success and health diplomacy.”
The honorary congressional co-chairs included: Senator and Mrs. Max Baucus, Representative and Mrs. Dave Camp and Representative and Mrs. John Dingell. Some of the others who contributed included dinner committee co-chairs David and Susan Hirschmann; members of the dinner committee and Carolyn “Bo” Aldigé, the President and Founder of the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
Other dignataries included Rear Admiral Susan J. Blumenthal, Former US Assistant Surgeon General First Deputy Asst Secretary for Women’s Health, Senator John and Mrs. Bobbi Barrasso and Representative Dave and Mrs. Nancy Camp.
David Tutera designed the Prevent Cancer Foundation Spring Gala 2013 tables (Photo: J Fishman)
Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero, Mrs. Laura Denise Bisogniero Joann Piccolo and Tim Karmody (Photo: J Fishman)
2013 Cancer Champion Awardee Ellen Tauscher (Photo: J Fishman)
Senator Dianne Feinstein presents 2013 Cancer Champion Award to Ellen Tauscher (Photo: J Fishman)
