Our Annual Benefit Gala began with a momentum that carried throughout the evening. Despite an unexpected weather delay that required us to reschedule, our community showed up with incredible spirit. Because of everyone who joined us, patients and caregivers traveling to Duke Cancer Institute will have a place to rest, connect, and find community during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
Throughout the night, we were reminded of the heart behind our mission. Honorees Dr. David Ashley, Director of the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, and his wife, Natalie Ashley, Administrative Director of Palliative Care, shared their family’s journey through cancer, highlighting the profound importance of support along the way. Former guest Zachary Slice offered a powerful reflection: “I am more than just a diagnosis.” Together, these stories captured what Caring House is all about: a place where strangers become friends, where generations connect, and where care extends far beyond a room key.
Thanks to your generosity, we raised an incredible $259,575, equivalent to over 5,000 nights of lodging for patients and caregivers. This helps ease the financial burden for families already facing the unimaginable, and most importantly, peace of mind so guests can focus on what matters most: healing.