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YORKTOWN, N.Y. More than 300 people helped Support Connection celebrate its 15th anniversary of providing support services and programs to people and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer. The gala took place Saturday at The Mansion at Colonial Terrace in Cortlandt.
During an upbeat evening of dining, dancing and fundraising, the Yorktown-based, nonprofit organization presented three Spirit Awards to people who have contributed to its mission of providing inspiration, time, talent and other resources.
Dana Boulanger of Lincolndale, who will be an ambassador for Support Connection's 2012 Support-A-Walk, received the Humanitarian of the Year award. A cancer survivor, Boulanger was recognized for being a leader and symbol of strength while helping to raise funds and promote the organization's free services in her publication Natural Awakenings.
Another cancer survivor, Jane Gentile of Yorktown, one of the ambassadors of the 2011 Support-A-Walk, received the Spirit of Hope award for being an inspiration and reaching out to others.
Meanwhile, sisters-in-law Margaret Zulkowsky of Yorktown, a breast cancer survivor, and Brenda Maxwell of Fishkill, an ovarian cancer survivor, were honored with Beacon of Light awards for having a long history of fundraising and volunteering. Maxwell will also be an ambassador for this year's fundraising walk.
In addition, a group of Unsung Heroes were recognized for their support of Support Connection. They are: Mary and Peter Fellbusch of Absolute Flooring; Al Avitabile, Celeste Baccari, Kristen Burke and Joe Guiliano of Yorktown Pizza and Pasta; Susan Petroccione of Yorktown; DeCicco Family Market and Brian William Event Decorators of Jefferson Valley; Freddy Orzechowski and Jo Vasta of Mahopac; Mia Azcue of Putnam Valley; The Davidson family of Peekskill; LeeAnn Byrne of Providence, R.I.; Sari Martin of Mills River, N.C.; and Moms of 2011 Bianca Gianetta of Cortlandt and Mary Heagle of Mohegan Lake.
For information on Support Connection's free and confidential services, visit www.supportconnection.org or call 914-962-6402.
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