American Cancer Society's 12th annual Discovery Ball raises $3 million

The American Cancer Society's 2018 "Discovery Ball," one of Chicago's premier galas and one of the top-rated charity events in the nation, raised $3 million net to impact the lives of those affected by cancer.

The 12th annual gala, "Impact From Every Angle," featured Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois as presenting sponsor and boasted nearly 800 guests and volunteers on Saturday, April 21, at the Swissotel.

"We're on the cusp of big things with new discoveries around the corner," said Maurice Smith, 2018 Discovery Ball Chair and president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. "And it's why we're there for everyone facing cancer, and to help people live healthier lives, right here in Chicago - and in communities nationwide. We are humbled by the generosity of the many sponsors of this event and so impressed with the volunteers that gave their time and talent to make it such a tremendous success."

Wayne White, executive vice president of North Central Region of American Cancer Society, closed out the evening of celebration, hope and remembrance by reminding the guests of the impact each and every one can make on the fight against cancer.

Among the evening's many highlights included a dazzling performance from Stage Factor aerialists as the guests entered the stunning ballroom decorated by HMR Designs.

ABC 7 Chicago's Tanja Babich was the warm, personable host of an evening filled with emotional stories of those who have been impacted by cancer and those who continue to make an impact on cancer. Guests enjoyed the angelic performance of Grammy Award-winning singer songwriter Colbie Caillat.

Contributing to the evening's fundraising success was a spirited live auction which included a trip to Barcelona, dinner in the winner's home with famed chef, Noah Sandoval, and a concert series package with a suite to Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney and Ed Sheeran.

Further accolades were given to Aon as the recipient of the event's annual Corporate Partnership Award in recognition of their extraordinary leadership and fundraising support. Aon has been a major Discovery Ball sponsor since its inception in 2007, contributing more than $800,000 toward the American Cancer Society's lifesaving mission. Aon served as the Presenting Sponsor for Discovery Ball 2010 and has embraced our cause so strongly, helping the American Cancer Society and its mission to eliminate cancer as a major public health problem.

The ongoing success of the American Cancer Society's Discovery Ball is rooted in a strong foundation of corporate support. This year, that support was led by Discovery Sponsors including the Boeing Company, Optum, Salesforce and Walgreens Boots Alliance. In addition, Cognizant Technology Solutions came in as a Diamond Sponsor. Platinum Sponsors included Advocate Health Care, Aon, Dell Technologies, ITW, Motorola Solutions, Inc. and Northern Trust.

Next year's Discovery Ball will be held in April 2019 in Chicago.