The Ellen Hermanson Foundation has no doubt changed the medical landscape of the East End over the past 25 years. The foundation has had a deep commitment to the community, giving back by funding state-of-the-art medical equipment and providing breast cancer screenings at The Ellen Hermanson Breast Center at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, as well as its locations in Hampton Bays and East Hampton.
It’s on the East End where breast cancer diagnosis and mortality rates are some of the highest the state.
The foundation also offers Ellen’s Well, a free psycho-social services program, providing individual and group support, as well as other healing opportunities for breast cancer survivors.
The foundation was created in the memory of Ellen Hermanson, a woman who lost her battle against breast cancer at the age of 42. As an activist and advocate, Ellen fought against breast cancer. The Ellen Hermanson Foundation is a continuation of her work and legacy.
And since its inception, no one is ever turned away for lack of insurance or inability to pay.
This winter the foundation is hosting the Tickled Pink Virtual Variety Show honoring community heroes and saluting women of East End media. Donations will fund programs at The Center, OLA of Eastern Long Island, The Retreat, and the Shinnecock Health Clinic.
The virtual event happens Saturday, March 6, and features comedy, magic, and so much more. Emcee for the evening is stand-up comedian Michele Balan, a talent who has been featured on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.”
The variety show will spotlight award-winning Cabaret artist Valerie diLorenzo, comedian and emerging poet Mimi Gonzalez, stand-up comedian Marion Grodin, solo performing artist Susan Jeremy, comedian, singer, and producer Angela LaGreca, comedian Wendy Liebman, and Madeleine The Magician.
Community leaders who will be honored include volunteer leader Sara Blue of the The Ellen Hermanson Foundation and Maureen’s Haven. Artist activist April Gornik will be honored for her work at Sag Harbor Cinema and The Church. As a community champion, Evelyn Ramunno, will be honored for all she does for the Sag Harbor Community Food Pantry. Marguerite A. Smith, Esq. an advocate and educator, will be honored for her work at the Shinnecock Indian Nation. Healer and survivor Moira Squires, an ICU Nurse and Founder of Warriors of the East End, will be honored.
Women of the East End Media being honored include Nicole Barylski of Hamptons.com, Carissa Katz of The East Hampton Star, Bridget LeRoy of WLIW 88.3 FM, Jessica Mackin-Cipro of James Lane Post, Kathryn G. Menu of The Express News Group, Helen S. Rattray of The East Hampton Star, Victoria Schneps-Yunis of Schneps Media, and Taylor K. Vecsey of Dan’s Papers.
Advanced registration is required for this virtual event. The event is free to register, but there is a suggested donation of $25. You can also join the host committee by making a donation of $50 or more toward the event. For more information and to register, visit www.ellenhermanson.org.
