In the summer of 1982, the Donovan brothers, Gerald and Fred, decided to use their bayside restaurant in Chesapeake Beach as the site for a fundraiser. The brothers, who are co-owners of the Rod ‘N’ Reel Restaurant, wanted to pay tribute to their father, who had passed away after battling cancer. The first event had a modest turnout and raised $5,300 for the American Cancer Society.
Fast forward almost three decades and the Cancer Crusade Annual Celebration of Life Gala is an event that annually attracts approximately 2,000 people and has raised over $4 million during its history.
Earlier this year, the Donovans received the American Cancer Society’s Award of Excellence for Income Development for the South Atlantic Division.
“The seed that got planted blossomed into what the gala is today,” said Gerald Donovan. “Our intent was to find a cure for cancer. Despite all the advances and improvements, it’s still with us.”
The 30th Cancer Crusade Annual Celebration of Life Gala will be held rain or shine Thursday, Aug. 4 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Rod ‘N’ Reel and will be hosted by the Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa.
Donovan credited the honorary chairs of past galas for helping contribute the needed time, money and ideas for enhancing the event. One of those ideas—corporate sponsorships—has been instrumental in the raising of funds. In fact, nearly 50 percent of the money the gala raises is the result of local businesses and individuals stepping up and contributing as much as $25,000 for the Eternity Diamond sponsorship to $500 for a Bronze Sponsorship.
Donovan indicated the 2011 event was doing OK on the sales of sponsorships. “In this economy we are thrilled,” he said. Individual ticket sales appear to be up, Donovan said. “We are ahead of last year as far as attendance and we’ll have more people at the gala this year.”
Advance tickets are $125 per person and $150 per person at the door. Those admitted may then savor a mind-boggling array of heavy hors d’oeuvres, buffets and desserts. Fresh seafood, including lobster, crabs, oysters, shrimp and clams will be served. There will also be music, dancing and an open bar. The 12th annual VIP Reception will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Donovan said all of the past honorary chairs who are still living have been invited to attend Thursday. The co-chairs for the 2011
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