One of Houston’s premier luncheons was back in full force this October with Memorial Hermann’s Annual Razzle Dazzle Luncheon breaking records this year. This stellar luncheon raised $1 million for breast cancer awareness and research! Chaired by community leaders Caroline and Will Brown, Lisa and Jerry Simon, and Yvonne Cormier, M.D. (Honorary Chair), the luncheon honored attendee Nina Hendee for her tireless contributions to Memorial Hermann and many other community causes.
This was the first in-person luncheon since the pandemic and it did not disappoint! Houston Chronicle culture columnist Joy Sewing interviewed Gladys Knight, “Empress of Soul” and seven-time Grammy award winner, who then wowed the crowd with her stunning vocal performance.
“On average a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes in the United States. During our program, that’s 45 women who will be diagnosed with this disease,” Memorial Hermann Foundation CEO and Executive Vice President Anne E. Neeson said to open this year’s luncheon.
KHOU traffic expert Jennifer Ryan emceed the luncheon perfectly. With raffle prizes, auction items, and more, guests were able to bid on exciting offerings throughout the luncheon. Since 2010, Razzle Dazzle has been able to raise over $5 million to support breast cancer patients and their families. Proceeds from this luncheon provide funding for cutting-edge equipment, mammograms for women who otherwise might not be able to afford them, and more. This luncheon is a hit with attendees and creates a huge community impact every year!
The luncheon honored the stories of those who have survived the disease as well as those who have not. Nina Hendee directed guests’ attention to an empty table in the ballroom’s center with each empty seat displaying a photo of absent friends and relatives who have been lost to breast cancer. Nina’s tributes to each of these ladies was a very touching part of this event.
Following a look at Razzle Dazzle 2022……
all photos courtesy of Daniel Ortiz and William Parish