In the heart of Aspen, the St. Regis Hotel and Resort played host to the second annual Aspen Snowball event, a spectacular series of gatherings spanning the first weekend of February. The star-studded affair, presented by film producer and philanthropist Thomas Pierce, unfolded as a beacon of support for the Children’s Oncology Support Fund (COSF). With a myriad of events, performances, and heartfelt moments, the Aspen Snowball not only raised more than $2.7 million but also stood as a testament to solidarity in eradicating pediatric cancer and honoring those touched by the disease.
The festivities kicked off with a luncheon at the picturesque Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, setting the stage for several days of philanthropy and celebration. Lugano Diamonds sponsored the official welcome party at ASPENX Mountain Club, followed by an Après-Ski Soirée at The Snow Lodge Aspen. The event reached its zenith with a spectacular gala at The St. Regis Aspen on Feb. 3, hosted by the resilient cancer survivor and media personality Giuliana Rancic.
The Aspen Snowball gala provided a platform to honor individuals making a significant impact in the fight against cancer. Rachel Zoe received the Philanthropic Impact Award, recognizing her commitment to the cause, while Tom Lewis was lauded with the Community Leadership Award. The highlight of the evening came with an emotional speech from 18-year-old cancer survivor Sam Wilkerson, who shared her journey of triumph over non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
Presented by Balmain, the gala embraced the theme "Through the Looking Glass," transforming the lower level of the St. Regis into a wonderland adorned with floral walls and Alice in Wonderland-inspired décor. The evening featured energetic performances by Tove Lo, Mojave Grey, and Nile Rodgers & Chic, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The celebration continued with an after-party at Snow Lodge, ensuring a night to remember.
One unique feature of the Aspen Snowball was the integration of contemporary light artist Olivia Steele's artwork into the events. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on Steele's neon sign collection, with 50% of the proceeds directed towards COSF's mission to fund less toxic therapies for pediatric cancer patients nationwide. Steele's significant contribution, the neon sign reading "Am I Dreaming?" created in 2022, symbolized hope for a future where cancer treatments are less toxic for young patients.
Steele, whose work includes neon signs with profound phrases, expressed her personal connection to COSF's mission, having recently lost her mother to cancer. The artist emphasized the importance of bringing awareness to pediatric cancer and supporting less toxic treatments for young patients. Her donated neon sign, "Am I Dreaming?" epitomizes the dream of a world where a cure for cancer exists, especially for children.
With over $2.7 million raised, the Aspen Snowball's impact will extend to the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children's Hospital Colorado. The newly-endowed COSF Advancement in Wellness Fund for the CCBD's Wellness Program will continue to receive support from the Aspen Snow Ball's fundraising efforts in the years to come.
The second annual Aspen Snowball event emerged as a triumph of community, compassion, and commitment to eradicating pediatric cancer. From glamorous galas to poignant speeches and artistic contributions, the event showcased the power of unity in supporting a worthy cause. As the Aspen Snowball continues to make a meaningful impact, the hope for a future without pediatric cancer burns even brighter. To learn more about COSF's mission and future events, visit cosffoundation.org.
