Pediatric Cancer Survivors Strut Their Stuff on the Runway at River Oaks Country Club

Pediatric Cancer Survivors Strut Their Stuff on the Runway at River Oaks Country Club

Ginger Blanton with 'Patient Champion' Nova (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

THE 13TH ANNUAL Salute to Champions event, held at River Oaks Country Club, celebrated the bravery and vitality of pediatric cancer survivors, a poignant way to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Chaired by Scott Basinger, Elsie Eckert, Sidney Faust and Judi McGee, the luncheon and fashion show raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars for Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center. Fox 26 reporter Melissa Wilson — who's also a mom of a pediatric cancer survivor — enthusiastically emceed the event, announcing the "Patient Champions," or models, as they walked the runway in sassy and chic fashions courtesy of Dillards. Each was accompanied by a "Community Champion," a notable Houstonian who has donated their time and money to the cause.

The 300 guests, including physicians and families of models, enjoyed a seasonally savory meal of pecan-crusted chicken and maple-mashed sweet potatoes — and chocolate mousse parfaits for dessert. Sweet!

Susan Blaney, Paige Schultz, Lara Shekerdemian and Jennifer Sanders (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Cathey Cook, Honorary Chair Sybil Roos and Betsy Garlington

Judi McGee, Susan Blaney and Rossitsa Nocolava (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Kelly Larkin and Fernando Parra with 'Patient Champion' Tatiana (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Clarease Rankin Yates and Gayla Gardner (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Dominique Armstrong, Fite Partsch, Scott Basinger, Marge Lindquist, Tina Faust and Peter Farrell (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

James Versalovic with 'Patient Champion' Michael (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Duyen and Marc Nguyen with 'Patient Champion' Anthony (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Gayla Gardner, Vicki West and Cheryl Byington (photo courtesy Texas Children's)

Parties
Leadership in Action: CEO Theresa Roemer Credits Mother, Mentors and Mindset for Accomplishments

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Snacks and apps at 1891 (photo by Andrew Hemingway)

WE ARE A couple weeks out from Super Bowl LIX, and it's not too early to be thinking about parties, food, and party food. We rounded up some of the most unique and bang-for-your-buck eats to make the event memorable.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

THE BARNES & NOBLE in Town & Country Village has been closed since February 2024, but on Wednesday, Jan. 29, it reopens with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and book-signing.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment