Over the last Ten Years, Chattanooga’s Gala of Hope has raised over $1.1 million dollars to support those in their fight with cancer and a cure for all cancers as we know it.
Since April 2019, the Gala’s mission paddle raise has helped to provide over 60,000 + free rides to and from treatment for East Tennessee patients in need.
In 2024, the American Cancer Society provided over $30,000 in grants to local hospital partners right here in Chattanooga to help those in need of transportation and overnight housing assistance for those living outside of the Hamilton County area (in partnership with American Cancer Society is currently funding twenty-six (26) grants in Tennessee alone, totaling more than $13,700 + dollars support the research being done to prolong the lives of those facing cancer.
Many of you know Gina Dhanani, known for her work with many of our local nonprofits and a visionary leader renowned in the Chattanooga community for her unwavering philanthropic commitment to improving the lives of others. As the Chief Operating Officer of Double Cola she embodies a blend of compassion and strategic thinking that has raised thousands of dollars for local nonprofit’s in our community. “Cancer has touched all of us in one way or another,” which is why taking on this leadership role is so important to me, she shares. Partnering with the American Cancer Society only makes sense. The American Cancer Society is not about one cancer but all cancers, so my investment as the Gala Chair and as a sponsor will make a difference in saving lives and putting an end to cancer as we know it. The evenings fundraising mission will be to support pediatric cancer research, lung cancer screening locally and cancer patient resources. We look forward to seeing you on the on the Red Carpet, November 15 at the Westin Chattanooga. Together let’s make a difference for those in their fight with cancer, and a future free from cancer as we know it.
At the Chattanooga Gala of Hope, we unite around a shared mission: advancing cancer research while ensuring every patient has access to care and support. For many in our community, life-saving treatment requires traveling far from home. Through Hope Lodge, patients and their caregivers are provided a free, welcoming place to stay during treatment not available locally—offering comfort, connection, and peace of mind. Tonight, we celebrate the power of hope in action—fueling research for a cure and supporting every patient’s journey with compassion and care. Together, we are bringing hope within reach for all.
Mission
For more than 10 decades, the American Cancer Society has been dedicated to pursuing better outcomes for every cancer, every life. Today, more people are surviving cancer than ever before, but there is still work to be done. Join us, support us, and help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
towards cancer research
winning scientists received research funding
through all patient support initiatives in 2024