Event raises $60,000 and honors champions expanding cancer services in Southwest Florida

Apr 3, 2026 – The Lee Health Cancer Institute Fashion Show & Luncheon brought together community members and supporters on March 24 at Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club to advance comprehensive cancer care across Southwest Florida. The annual event raised $60,000 to support the continued expansion of cancer services at Lee Health Cancer Institute.

The afternoon featured a silent auction, a high‑energy fashion show and a recognition ceremony honoring individuals whose compassion and commitment have made a meaningful difference for cancer patients and families.

“This event is a celebration of everyone who stands alongside our patients,” said Deb Wilson, vice president of operations for Lee Health Cancer Institute. “Their commitment strengthens our ability to expand advanced treatments and supportive services right here in our community.”

Proceeds from the event directly support Lee Health Cancer Institute’s continued growth, including services at the fully donor-funded Cancer Support Community, and increased access to exceptional care close to home.

During the luncheon, Lee Health recognized community members for their extraordinary service and support:

  • Stella Halpin for the Angel Award, recognizing a non‑family member who supports cancer patients through treatment. A recurrent breast cancer survivor, Halpin is a dedicated advocate for women navigating diagnosis and recovery. Through active participation in support groups, community wellness programs and informal gatherings she hosts in her home, she offers empathy, encouragement and hope to fellow survivors. Her resilience, generosity and unwavering positivity make a lasting impact on those facing cancer.
  • Javier De Jesus for the Guardian Award, recognizing a family member who supports a loved one through cancer treatment. At 19 years old, De Jesus paused his education and employment to care for his mother during her battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. While also grieving the loss of his father to terminal cancer, he remained a constant source of strength, faith and compassion. His selflessness and devotion reflect extraordinary maturity and embody the true spirit of a guardian.
  • Dr. Nadine Singh for the Phoenix Award, recognizing a community member who has reshaped cancer care through education, prevention and development of new resources. Singh is the founder of Premier Mobile Health Services, a nonprofit that delivers preventive care and early detection services to uninsured and underserved communities across Lee County. Through a mobile healthcare model that reduces barriers to access, she connects patients to routine care, screenings and diagnostic referrals, advancing health equity and early cancer intervention.
  • Molly Grubbs for the Big Heart Award, recognizing a cancer survivor who gives back to the community. A five‑year breast cancer survivor, Grubbs has transformed her personal journey into a mission of advocacy, education and peer support. She provides one‑on‑one mentorship, speaks publicly about wellness and early detection, and partners with local businesses and organizations to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients throughout Southwest Florida.
  • Amber Grinder for the Dee Congress Super Star Volunteer Award, recognizing extraordinary volunteerism in the cancer community. Diagnosed with a Grade II oligo‑astrocytoma in 2004, Grinder founded Amber’s Antibodies, a nonprofit that has donated more than $1.7 million to support Southwest Florida families affected by cancer and contributed more than $220,000 to cancer research. Her lifelong commitment to service has transformed personal adversity into widespread community impact.

Attendees also enjoyed a curated silent auction featuring travel experiences, dining, wellness packages, fashion and jewelry. The fashion show showcased apparel provided by Dillard’s, Mainstream Boutique, House of Wu, J. McGulhaim, Razzle Dazzle and Coastguard Escorts, modeled by local residents.

The event was made possible through the generous support of community partners, including:

  • Title Sponsor: Tommie Schott
  • High Reception Sponsor: TECO Gas
  • Shop Til’ You Drop Sponsors: Burandant, Amanski, Fechtler & Sanchez; Florida Power & Light Company
  • Centerpiece Sponsors: Seminole Casino; Karen Locke; Lee County Co‑Op; RG Architects
  • Award Sponsor: Advocate Radiology

For more information about advancing cancer care at Lee Health Cancer Institute or to discuss giving opportunities, visit LeeHealthFoundation.org/Cancer.

About Lee Health Foundation

Lee Health Foundation raises philanthropic support on behalf of community-focused nonprofit Lee Health to establish, expand, and enhance lifesaving and preventive programs in Southwest Florida. Contributions to the Foundation benefit all five Lee Health hospitals and specialty services. In the past year, the Foundation provided $34+ million in funding to enhance patient care throughout the region. Please visit LeeHealthFoundation.org for more information about the role of Lee Health philanthropy in Southwest Florida.