Story by Jennie Trejo. Video by Angelica Villa. Photos provided by Children's Cancer Fund.
Twenty brave pediatric cancer patients, ranging in age from six to 16, were introduced on February 11 as models for the upcoming 35th Anniversary Children’s Cancer Fund (CCF) Gala.
The event, sponsored by Dillard’s, celebrates the resilience of children battling cancer, giving them a chance to shine on the runway in April while raising critical funds for pediatric cancer research and care. This milestone year continues Children’s Cancer Fund’s mission of advancing treatment and inspiring hope for families facing childhood cancer.
The 2025 Gala Chairs, Lori Jones and Meredith Land, joined Cowboys legends and Honorary Chairmen Troy Aikman and Dak Prescott at NorthPark Center to celebrate these young models and mark the official start of gala season.
“Every year that I have been a part in a small way– whether attending or helping with auction items– has always been special because it is an incredible cause, and we are so lucky to be doing it together as friends and mothers,” Lori says. “It’s so exciting for the kids because they’ve been through so much, so to have a big to-do made for them, with applause and football and dressing up– it makes them feel special.”
Meredith echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the impact beyond the event itself.
“We just love this organization and what it stands for. And just knowing how underfunded pediatric cancer is, this is the least we can do. More than anything, we want families to know we are here for them and support them in all ways—not just on April 11 but every year and every day.”
The Children’s Cancer Fund Gala, set for April 11, 2025, at the Hilton Anatole, aims to raise over $2 million for pediatric cancer research and care at Children’s HealthSM and UT Southwestern Medical Center.
Jennifer Arthur, CEO of Children’s Cancer Fund, says the organization was founded in 1982 by a group of parents determined to make a difference.
“The parents said to themselves, ‘We’ve got to make a change. We’ve got to do something– our kids should not be fighting cancer,’” Jennifer explains. “So they put this nonprofit together with the primary purpose of raising funds for cancer research, and that’s what we’ve been doing for over 30 years.”
The 35th Anniversary Gala Kickoff at NorthPark was a moment of joy and encouragement as the community gathered to celebrate these young warriors.
“You look up, you look around, and the public is here to cheer them on, to say that we are inspired by you, and we want to bring you hope,” Jennifer says, describing the significance of the event.
The Children’s Cancer Fund Gala is a night of celebration, bringing together community members, donors, and families to honor these young warriors. The event’s signature fashion show allows pediatric cancer patients to shine on stage, fostering joy, confidence, and a sense of triumph over adversity.
For more information about CCF or to purchase tickets, visit www.childrenscancerfund.com/gala.
Sign up with your email address to receive good stories, events, and volunteer opportunities in your inbox.
Notifications
