Hope IN Action
Nonprofits across the Greater New Orleans area are making a difference in the fight against cancer.
TULANE’S MAKING WAVES AGAINST CANCER
Cancer doesn’t discriminate—and neither does the Wave Makers 5K. The Tulane Cancer Center event brings cancer survivors, caregivers, physicians, researchers, and supporters together to celebrate those affected by cancer and raise funds for transformational research and lifesaving discoveries.
The Wave Makers 5K returns October 18 to Lafrenière Park. The morning begins with the Swell Kids 1⁄2-Mile Run, followed by the 5K. Runners, walkers, and spectators of all ages are welcome, and the certified course is also designed for competitive runners.
After over 900 people participated in last year’s inaugural event, this year’s race features a largest-team competition, finisher medals, custom awards, post-race food and refreshments, vendors, and live entertainment from the Tulane Marching Band. More than a race, the Wave Makers 5K celebrates the strength of the cancer community and the people working every day to make a difference.
gratefulgiving.tulane.edu/wavemakers5k
OCHSNER’S NIGHT OF MOONLIGHT AND MIRACLES
With Caesars Superdome as the backdrop, Ochsner Health’s Moonlight & Miracles on November 13 promises to be an unforgettable evening. For 84 years, Ochsner has been at the forefront of cancer care, cardiology, neurosciences, liver and heart transplants, and countless other areas of specialized care. Join Ochsner for a special evening supporting initiatives that make a difference across our entire community.
Lori Ochsner and Mark Romig will welcome Event Chairwoman Mrs. Gayle Benson, a longtime supporter of Ochsner Health. Guests will enjoy entertainment by Blue Rhythm, a delicious menu from Legends Catering, and an evening supporting the patients of Ochsner Health.
Can’t make it to the celebration? You can still drive change by entering the 2026 Mercedes-Benz raffle for a chance to win a 2026 GLC. Visit bit.ly/3Vkh3lC to enter and support Ochsner’s ongoing efforts.
ochsner.org/giving/donate/special-events
SURVIVORS REV THE RUNWAY WITH YOU NIGHT
You Night Empowering Events is a free, nine-month emotional wellness and empowerment program for women facing cancer. The journey culminates with Rev the Runway, a powerful celebration featuring the 28 remarkable women of the Class of 2026 as they take the stage to honor strength, resilience, and hope. Join them November 14 at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center.
Since 2013, over 700 local women have experienced the program and discovered that connection is one of the most powerful tools after a cancer diagnosis. Through sisterhood, creativity, storytelling, and proven techniques to release trauma, participants find healing, renewed purpose, and the strength to embrace life beyond cancer—together with courage and confidence.
FLEUR DE BRA – A COUTURE FASHION SHOW BENEFITING BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Fleur de Bra was created in 2021 by Founder Dr. Suma Maddox to bring the artists of our city together with the female professionals of our community to raise funds for a common goal: to support the women of Louisiana needing breast reconstruction after mastectomy surgery.
Where breast surgery causes destruction, the art of reconstruction aims to restore beauty and confidence so that a woman might heal with dignity and grace. “There has never been a more passionate and supportive collective of people working together in New Orleans than the participants of Fleur de Bra,” Dr. Maddox says.
The 2026 event will take place November 22 at Hotel St. Vincent Uptown New Orleans, with Anne Kenny, founder and creative director of Heirloom South, as the 2026 event designer. Creatives from every industry will come together to give hope to the women of our community.
SHUCK CANCER NEW ORLEANS
The American Cancer Society’s Shuck Cancer, presented by LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center, returns to Champions Square on November 19, bringing together food lovers, community leaders, and philanthropists for New Orleans’ premier “party with a purpose.” Event Chair Alfredo Sanchez and the ACS GenNow Network of New Orleans will host an evening featuring fresh oysters from across the country, over 30 local restaurants, wine and spirit tastings, entertainment, and a silent auction.
Since 2018, Shuck Cancer has raised over $2 million to help Louisiana cancer patients access lifesaving treatment through free transportation and lodging assistance programs like the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery and Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge.
DR. ZEENA AL-DUJAILI
Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili, a board-certified, fellowship-trained dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and owner of New Orleans Aesthetics, provides skin cancer screenings and evaluations of new, changing, or concerning lesions.
A seemingly insignificant spot can turn into skin cancer, which is why she encourages patients to make sun protection part of their everyday routine—not something reserved for beach days. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding tanning beds are key. She encourages everyone to have new or changing spots evaluated by a dermatologist. “The sun exposure responsible for premature aging and sun damage can increase skin cancer risk,” she explains. “Don’t wait until something looks alarming to care for your skin.”
Visit neworleansaesthetics.com
THIBODAUX REGIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE
The Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute’s comprehensive cancer awareness, screening, and treatment services promote early detection through screenings for breast, colorectal, lung, and skin cancers. Patients have access to advanced 3D digital mammography, education, and a dedicated nurse navigator who coordinates appointments and addresses barriers to care.