ArtBLINK Gala returns for 39th year to support cancer research

The advisory board of the UAB O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center will host its 39th annual ArtBLINK Gala on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 6:30 p.m. in the UAB Kirklin Clinic.

As one of Birmingham’s premier events, the evening includes a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind pieces created live by local artists, a cocktail dinner catered by IZ Catering, and a night of dancing with live music from Ready or Knot. 

The ArtBLINK Gala raises funds for the O’Neal Fund for Excellence, which promotes broad areas of basic, translational and population science research relevant to cancer and helps the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center further its mission of advancing the understanding of cancer to improve prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship for all people.

The O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center is among the nation’s leading cancer research institutions and one of only 56 cancer centers in the country with a “comprehensive” designation from the National Cancer Institute. 

“O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center’s routine recognition as being among the nation’s best means the residents of Alabama have access to the latest therapies, cutting-edge clinical trials and the expertise needed to treat their cancer right in their own backyard,” said Barry Sleckman, M.D., Ph.D., director of the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. “The ArtBLINK Gala helps raise awareness and support for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center as we work to reduce the burden of cancer in the state of Alabama and beyond.” 

ArtBLINK will also celebrate Allene and Foots Parnell, the 2024 Director’s Circle honorees, for their longstanding commitment to the center and Birmingham at large.

“We are pleased to honor the Parnells for their unwavering dedication to the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center and their profound impact on our community,” said Laura McDonald, president of the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center Advisory Board. “Their commitment to this cause embodies the very spirit of compassion and community that we cherish. We celebrate not just their philanthropic efforts, but their extraordinary hearts. Their legacy reminds us that, even in the face of adversity, we can make a difference and bring light into the lives of those affected by cancer.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit artblink.org.