The DuPage Region of the American Cancer Society recently celebrated the Night of a Thousand Stars, an evening honoring local volunteers and organizations that contributed to the fight against cancer during the past year. The Hilton Lisle/Naperville hosted and underwrote the cost of the banquet hall and food for this second annual recognition reception with more than 200 attendees, according to an American Cancer Society release.

Greg Bielawski, chairman of the DuPage Region Leadership Council, and Chris Hensley, DuPage regional vice president, co-hosted the celebration in recognition of those who helped raise more than $2.6 million in the county from September 2003 through August.

Awards were presented to more than 75 individuals, organizations and sponsors in several categories, including Relay For Life, Patient Navigation Services, Special and Third Party events, Community Health Initiatives and Workplace Giving. There was also a PNS Rookie of the Year award presented to Road to Recovery driver Rene Roberge, recognition of Relay For Life platinum teams that raised more than $10,000, and a Regional Best Entrance to an Event plaque given to the Rescue Heroes of North Naperville, who were escorted to their Relay on an old-fashioned fire truck with lights and sirens blaring.

Three inaugural categories were introduced this year and will continue in future ceremonies. The first, the Judy Oakland Community Award — named in memory of the three-year co-chair of the Relay For Life of Carol Stream who lost her cancer battle in February — was presented to Mary Steffens for her efforts in going above and beyond the fight against cancer. The Kristen Passinisi Youth Award, named in memory of a young and valued volunteer who also lost her battle to cancer this year, was given to Meredith Schilsky for her work as an youth volunteer.

The High Impact Award was presented to Central DuPage Health, in recognition of its partnership with the American Cancer Society in every aspect of programs, events and services.

The night's success left attendees anticipating the next reception with new accomplishments to celebrate.

For more information about the American Cancer Society, call (800) 227-2345. Cancer information specialists in any language are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To find out about American Cancer Society volunteer opportunities in DuPage County, call (630) 932-1141.

10/15/04