On October 27th, 2016 The Emma Jacobs Breast Cancer Foundation, Taking Initiative To Survive (T.I.T.S) held their 8th annual fundraiser. The event honors breast cancer fighters, survivors and raises funds to benefit the research of Dr. Anthony Lucci of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Thanks to the generosity of Mimi Sperber-Wasserberg, the event once again took place at her gallery OFF THE WALL in the Galleria.

This year we showcased our most impressive silent auction ever under the new electronic format of online bidding. Our silent auction opened online one week prior to the event. The online bidding format opened up the opportunity for everyone to join in on the bidding frenzy even if not present at the event. We even had auction winners that reached clear across the Atlantic! The sold-out auction included priceless items such as house seats for 11 time Tony Award Winner Hamilton on Broadway, a one weeks stay at stunning Donna Rosa Villa in Positano Italy, Luxury suite tickets to Andrea Bocelli, Into the Botswana Wild Safari, an Alaskan adventure at Tanuku Lodge, and several luxury lodging destinations including Cabo San Lucas, Steamboat Springs, Cancun, Acapulco, East Hampton and New York City. It offered an extensive selection of notable items to fit all budgets and interests.

This year our Live Auction featured three exciting items. Dr. Lucci collaborated with Amber’s Designs to create a stunning one-of-a-kind ring honoring breast cancer survivors and supporters. Stephanie Vaughn took home this exquisite ring. Dr. Lucci did not disappoint with his painting purchased by Tammy Crawford and Andy Priest was the winning bidder the striking metal sculpture created by Dr. Lucci’s researcher and assistant, Carolyn Hall.

We would like to thank our generous donors: Nice Winery for providing the delightful wines, Capone’s for the delectable wood-burning pizzas, SlimRITAs for the outstanding margaritas and to Crave Cupcakes for their baked fresh daily cupcakes, brownies and gluten-free lemon bars. All were generously provided for the event. Thank you to our other underwriters, The Farinola family and friends who underwrote the cost of the bar and to Sheri Henriksen who underwrote the catering for the event.

We would like to thank all of our ticket buyers, donors, volunteers and bidders who generously supported us and give purpose to our cause.