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On Friday November 18, 2016 philanthropists and do-gooders came together at the Four Season Hotel in Boston to raise fund for the annual Shades of Hope Gala hosted by the Melanoma Foundation of New England.

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Founded in 1999, the MFNE is dedicated to educating the public about the importance of early detection and prevention in reducing the risk of melanoma, and providing support and advocacy to patients and families struggling with the effects of the disease. VIPs enjoyed early admission to the event which included open bar and a variety of tasty and chic buffet style dining options, in addition to a number of silent auction items.

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This year SD Events changed up the reception portion of the evening which was quite well received, providing comfortable lounge style seating which was a departure from years past theatre style seating. Electric violinist Jeremy Green kept guests entertained prior to welcoming Executive Director Deb Girard and emcee and WCVB NewsCenter co-anchor Heather Unruh to warm up the crowd.

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MFNE Board President Amy Walls received this year’s Suzanne Donahue Keeper of the Hope Award for her work with the Foundation to promote its advocacy and her personal story about her husband’s terminal fight against melanoma left nary a dry eye in the room.

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A lively auction followed which contributed heavily to the success of the event in raising over $365,000 towards the MFNE’s fight against Melanoma. Attending this event over the past few years has been such a pleasure – and it keeps getting better over time!

Happy Hoping,

Jenicka

Photos by Ben Lussier and by Socially Superlative