So excited!

Did an interview with the amazing Valerie Smaldone today! I'm looking forward to being a regular guest on her radio show on WOR710 talking about the celebs and their causes! I met Valerie when I interviewed her and her work on behalf of Ovarian Cancer research. Tune in!

Ray Romano's special fund-raising performance

Beloved television sitcom comedian Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond, Men of a Certain Age) takes the stage in New York City's newly renovated SVA Theatre (333 West 23rd Street) on Friday, May 14th to perform his Vegas-style comedy act in a rare New York appearance. The Queens-born performer will be coming back to his home town for this performance specifically for this one night only special event, to be a part of a fundraiser for ovarian cancer research.

A Ray of Hope, in its inaugural year, is an event to benefit the early detection, treatment and cure of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic cancer, and one of the five leading causes of cancer death among women in the United States.

Each year, approximately 22,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the United States and about 15,000 American women die from the disease. These numbers are underscored by the sobering fact that currently there is no reliable screening test for the early detection of ovarian cancer. The majority of cases (81%) are not diagnosed until the disease is advanced, at which time a woman’s survival is significantly compromised.

One hundred percent of the evening’s proceeds will go through the Sass Foundation for Medical Research with monies funnelled to Mt. Sinai Hospital and NYU Langone Medical Center, to help fund research projects for ovarian cancer.

Valerie Smaldone also co-producer of the event will emcee the event. Broadway performer Craig Schulman will perform some of the best loved songs from Broadway and Jon Manfrellotti, from Men of a Certain Age, will introduce Ray and his vegas Style act.

WHEN: Friday, May 14. Doors open at 8 pm, performance begins at 9. There will also be a VIP after-party, where ticket holders will be treated to craft beers, wine and cheeses as well as Italian pastries.

WHERE: SVA Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street, between 8th and 9th

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Merchandise available for sale, live auction of exciting products from Coach, Brooks Brothers, Bose, Tiffany & Co. as well as a condo in Naples, Florida and a trip to Vegas to see Ray Romano's show, with a Ray Romano meet and greet!

TICKETS: Tickets for A Ray of Hope starring Ray Romano range from $150-$275 and can be purchased at Theatermania.com.
http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/shows/a-ray-of-hope_165888/

On the Path to Cure Ovarian Cancer starring Ray Romano was conceived by Linda John, an ovarian cancer survivor (and Ray's first cousin) after she went through treatment for the disease. John, CEO of Corporate Family Network, felt that there was not enough targeted research being done for early stage testing and wanted to be actively involved. In addition to her work with the Ovarian Cancer National Alliances's Survivors Training Program, Linda wanted to do more. She enlisted the help of media personality Valerie Smaldone, who has created events in the past for ovarian cancer awareness and funding, and had herself dealt with ovarian cancer years ago, to co-produce and emcee the event.

The Sass Foundation for Medical Research, Inc. was established in 1986 as a non-profit, non-sectarian foundation dedicated to medical research, education and patient care programs for cancer and related diseases. For more information go to www.sassfoundation.org or www.arayofhopeforovariancancer.com

3 Doors Down, Taylor Hicks, James Frey, Allison Winn Scotch, Valerie Smaldone

On April 16th, 2009, five year old Frankie Flora was tragically and horrifically attacked by a pit bull right near my own hometown. Thankfully, Frankie survived, but he will be scarred and need many, many surgeries that insurance doesn't cover. I'm a mom of three and this story touched my heart. So, I have helped to organize a fundraiser to help cover Frankie's costs. To do this, I reached out to some awesome celebrities who have graciously helped me put together a fantastic set of raffle prizes.

I wanted to thank the amazing rock group 3 Doors Down who donated an autographed drumskin and photo! Thanks to Taylor Hicks, who is sending along an autographed copy of his latest album! Best selling author James Frey sent along two autographed books, including A Million Little Pieces! Best selling author Allison Winn Scotch, author of Time of My Life, is sending along copies of her books. New York personality Valerie Smaldone has tapped into her sources for some great prizes as well! The generosity has been overwhelming and it's absolutely touching. If you are a celeb or represent a celeb and can donate a prize for our July 11th event, I'd really appreciate it. In the meantime, celebrate the amazing generosity of these celebrities and support them in what they do. They truly have a heart of gold.

Thanks,
Lisa