Virtual Lime Light Gala Delivers a Magical Night

virtual lime light gala

HEADstrong’s 10th Annual Lime Light Gala looked a little different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Normally, the foundation’s largest event of the year would be held in person but due to the restrictions put in place and the substantial immunocompromised segment of the event’s guest list, HEADstrong pivoted and presented the event virtually, which allowed attendees to watch the gala from the comfort of their own homes. 

For those who would have been in attendance, Grubhub gift cards were mailed out along with a full run-of-show program which allowed guests to purchase dinner while they settled in for the hour and a half long event. 

The night was filled with performances starting with Lisa Loeb kicking off the night with her hit song, “Stay”, followed by Philly’s own G. Love, Abby Andersen, Ryan Cabrera, America’s Got Talent’s Evie Clair, Jesse Ruben and HEADstrong Board Member and 3 time cancer survivor Jessy Kyle. Jellyroll concluded the evening with a virtual variety show, covering all of your favorite hits. Each of the performers had their own direct or personal association with HEADstrong’s mission in some way, shape or form, making their special performances particularly impactful. 

Not only was the night filled with great music, but it also honored great people who work relentlessly to help patients in their fight while ensuring Nick’s legacy lives on. Jacqui Melott, an oncology nurse at the Abramson Cancer Center at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, was this year’s HEADstrong Achievement Award Winner. Each year the award is given to a recipient for their dedication, compassion and excellence in the care of families in the fight against cancer.

Delaney Unger from Long Island, NY was this year’s recipient of the prestigious Nicholas E. Colleluori Award. This award is given to an individual who reflects the values of HEADstrong Founder Nick Colleluori. Delaney was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at 12 years old, which put a damper on her dancing dreams. After an extremely unique surgery which utilized her removed ankle as a knee joint, she is once again chasing her dreams of becoming a dancer.

Lastly, the Radcliffe Family of West Chester, PA were this year’s HEADstrong Spirit Award recipients. This award is presented to advocates committed to advancing the Foundation’s mission in the fight against cancer. Jackie and BJ accepted the award in memory of their late daughter, Charlotte Grace who passed away after a courageous battle with Medulloblastoma, a malignant form of brain cancer. The family launched the Charlotte Grace Fund in memory of their daughter and have several events a year such as 5k race and charity golf outing. 

“Year 10 of the Lime Light Gala is a milestone for the Foundation and toasting “10” keeps Nick’s vision alive as we build community to support the fighters, applaud the survivors, remember the taken and never ever give up hope.” remarked HEADstrong President and Nick’s Mom, Cheryl Colleluori. 

This year’s Silent Auction included a multitude of trips, memorabilia, and experiences including a Julius Erving “Dr. J” Autographed 76ers Jersey, trips to Napa Valley and Savannah, Georgia, a Cheesesteak Party at Your Home With Tony Luke Jr and many more. 

Despite the circumstances this year’s Gala went off without a hitch and raised over $300k for the HEADstrong Foundation. DJ Reed Street of the Philadelphia Flyers even hosted an afterparty of IGTV. To rewatch the magic of the 10th Annual LimeLight Gala head on over to bit.ly/LiveLLG