The Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group’s annual Celebration of Life Luncheon has drawn some impressive featured speakers over the years, including retired American figure skater Dorothy Hamill; American journalist, TV producer and writer Geralyn Lucas; and celebrity couple Giuliana and Bill Rancic.
The 2019 Celebration of Life Luncheon will take place July 26 at the Vail Marriott featuring award-winning journalist, author, women’s health and wellness advocate and breast cancer survivor Joan Lunden as the featured speaker.
“This, our 25th anniversary, is a special year for us,” said Brenda Himelfarb, president and co-founder of the Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group. “We are looking forward to sharing our joy with Joan. Over the years, her work as a broadcaster and author as well as her involvement with non-profits, has been an inspiration. “
For nearly two decades, Lunden greeted viewers each morning on “Good Morning America.” As the longest running female host ever on early morning television, she reported from 26 countries, covered five presidents, five Olympics and kept Americans up to date on everything from what was going on in the world to how to care for their health and families. Lunden continues to be one of America’s most recognized and trusted personalities. She is a special correspondent on the “Today” show, host of the CBS series “Your Health” and has graced the covers of more than 60 magazines and book covers.
In 2014, Lunden was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer requiring chemotherapy, surgery and radiation. An eternal optimist, she wanted to turn her diagnosis into an opportunity to help others. She blogged throughout her cancer treatment and wrote a memoir, “Had I Known,” which documents her battle and reflects on her life and career and will be available at the luncheon.
As a part of the sandwich generation, Lunden’s demographic is far-reaching. Like many others, she has juggled being a working mom while caring for an aging parent. She is a mother of seven, including two sets of twins.
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Lunden has served as national spokesperson for various organizations including the American Heart Association, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the American Lung Association and the American Red Cross.
The Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group supports those in Eagle County who are going through breast cancer. Over the years, the group has raised over $1 million, contributing toward the purchase of equipment for the Shaw Regional Cancer Center and providing assistance to those who have been diagnosed with the disease.
For sponsor opportunities or information about the Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group’s Celebration of Life luncheon, call 970-479-8595.
