Every Color Matters Cancer Foundation Raises Nearly $50,000 at Annual Gala

The fight against cancer continues to be a significant global health challenge. As of 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths annually, or one in six deaths globally.

Despite these daunting statistics, there have been notable advances in detection, treatment and prevention. The survival rates for some cancers, such as breast, prostate and thyroid cancers, have increased significantly due to improved screening and early detection. However, disparities persist, particularly in low-to-middle-income countries, where access to cancer care is often limited and diagnosis comes late, making effective treatment more challenging.

For this reason, organizations that provide cancer patients with both knowledge resources and financial support are highly valued. The Every Color Matters Cancer (ECM) Foundation is one such organization that is making significant contributions in the fight against cancer.

This past Saturday, ECM hosted its 6th Annual Gala and Auction Fundraiser at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta, marking another milestone in its commitment to cancer awareness and support. This year’s event, themed "Give Us the Night," was a major success, selling out with over 350 guests in attendance, including cancer survivors, supporters, celebrities and local political figures.

Founded by Georgia native Barney Jackson, who has personally lost several family members to cancer, ECM has grown from a simple vision to host an annual 5K into a comprehensive platform for cancer education and support. Over the past eight years, ECM has become Atlanta's leading cancer foundation dedicated to raising awareness about all forms of cancer, promoting early detection, and providing essential resources to those affected.

“Our original aim was to host an annual 5k in South Atlanta,” says Jackson. “As a Georgia native who has lost a father, brother, step-father, and former pastor to cancer, I felt compelled to raise awareness about all forms of cancer and support families facing this disease, just as I had. My personal experiences inspired the name Every Color Matters.”

This year’s gala not only celebrated the community's achievements in battling cancer but also provided critical funding for ECM’s ongoing initiatives. The evening was hosted by Dr. Dan Sims, former Associate Superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools and now Superintendent of Bibb County Schools, and featured a special presentation by Jonathan Stacey from Fox 5 News. A highlight of the event was the presentation of checks totaling $5,000 to five individuals currently battling cancer, each receiving $1,000 to aid their fight.

The event also saw the City of Atlanta officially declaring June 22, 2024, as Every Color Matters Cancer Awareness Day, a testament to ECM’s impact in the community.

In a few short hours, the gala raised nearly $50,000, funds that will support ECM's year-round initiatives including a community 5K, educational outreach, and grants for ancillary treatment costs. However, the need continues with nearly 70 more individuals seeking assistance.

To continue the support for those affected by cancer and to expand ECM's initiatives, head over to EveryColorMatters.com and consider making a donation. Your support can make a real difference in the lives of those fighting cancer."

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Photo Credit: Provided by Every Color Matters