From Jersey Shore antics to K-Pop Cancer Hunters’ moves, Disney princess magic, and pickleball prowess, Savannah was the place where worlds collided for a cause that truly matters. On February 20th, this unforgettable mix of personalities—along with countless supporters—gathered for CURE Childhood Cancer’s 12th annual Catie’s Gathering, presented by Coastal Electric, celebrating hope, community, and the fight against childhood cancer. Over 450 members of the Savannah community came together to create a beautiful, fun, inspiring night to honor the children battling cancer, celebrate the survivors, and remember those precious lives we’ve lost.
The event benefits Catie’s Fund, a named fund of CURE. Catie’s Fund was established by Jenny and Tre Wilkins in memory of their firstborn daughter, Catie, who lost her battle with medulloblastoma at four years old. The fund supports CURE’s research initiatives – specifically, the Precision Medicine Program, which focuses on individualized treatments based on each child’s genetic makeup and is used to support patients and their families in their fight against childhood cancer.
The evening started with a cocktail hour and live music by Junkyard Angel while attendees browsed the silent auction of over 200 items donated by local businesses and supporters. Table hosts outdid themselves with their themes this year, creating gorgeous tablescapes with coordinating details and coming dressed in theme with their tables. A delicious buffet dinner catered by Magnolia Grill followed.
Emcee Andrew Davis guided guests through an evening dedicated to hope and inspiration. Mandy Garola, CURE Childhood Cancer’s Vice President for South Georgia, kicked off the program by celebrating CURE’s 50th anniversary, highlighting both the incredible progress made since 1975 and the work that still lies ahead. Attendees were deeply moved by the story of Harper, a courageous young girl battling a Wilms tumor, which inspired a record-breaking response during the spirited Fund-a-CURE paddle raise. The night concluded with an extraordinary live auction, featuring a standout piece of artwork created from the handprints of patients and survivors forming the word “JOY,” which sold for $20,000 to a generous supporter. The evening was filled with meaningful moments and joyful celebration, leaving all who attended inspired and uplifted.
We would like to thank our Catie’s Gathering title sponsor, Coastal Electric, the event committee, event sponsors, volunteers, table hostesses, vendors, and auction donors for an extremely successful event. Together, we raised $432,021.93 to fight childhood cancer!