The American Cancer Society Launches “The Decades” Gala in Grand Rapids

On Thursday, October 22, the American Cancer Society will bring “The Decades,” a “way cool” evening event to raise money in the fight against cancer to Grand Rapids for the first time. The event will be held at the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids and is led by honorary chair Meg Goebel of the Paul Goebel Group.

Celebrating all things from the 1980s (think big hair, Miami Vice and lots of neon), the evening will start at 6:30 p.m. with a special ’80s Glam Station where guests can trick out their hair and makeup in super ’80s style. There will also be an arcade area with totally awesome throwback arcade games from the 1980s. It only gets better as the night goes on with a live featured performance by fan favorite the Mega 80’s Band, super ’80s cocktails, food stations and more.

The event also features a high-end live auction featuring “totally boss” packages such as a signed Picasso painting, an Orlando Magic Basketball package, Progressive Dinner for 6 at the B.O.B. and a Cygnus 27 package.

Guests at the event will also have the opportunity to fund the mission of the American Cancer Society and make a donation directly to the Hope Lodge in Grand Rapids. Hope Lodge provides complimentary lodging to patients going through cancer treatment that travel to and from Grand Rapids to receive their treatment. Since 2008, Hope Lodge has provided more than 1,500 cancer patients and their caregivers more than 30,000 nights of free lodging.

“We are so excited to bring this new event to Grand Rapids as a really different and unique opportunity to help finish the fight against cancer,” said Cindy Kovacik, Senior Development Manager for the American Cancer Society. “We’re planning a wicked good time for guests and the best part is that all proceeds benefit cancer programs and services for those fighting cancer, cancer research and finding ways to prevent and eliminate cancer as a major health concern.”

Tickets are $150 per person and include food, beverages and admission to the Mega 80’s performance.