Darlene Smith, Advocate and Cancer Survivor, Prior to being diagnosed with stage 3B breast cancer in January 2003, Darlene has had a long and profitable career in the insurance industry including many years with Cigna Healthcare. After her cancer diagnosis, Darlene’s life has taken a different turn. She currently works on a part-time basis and utilizes her talents and past work experience by assisting other cancer survivors. She serves as a cancer advocate and pursues cancer awareness and education.
Scott Greene, Consultant, Scott was born and raised in Memphis, TN and Rhea’s family is also located in Memphis as well. Scott started a career in logistics 30 years ago. Scott and his wife Rhea moved to Chattanooga one year ago. Scott recently finished his MBA from the University of TN, Haslam College of Business while serving as the American Cancer Society 2023 Gala Chair and now as the Chattanooga Board Chair. Scott is the father to 3 grown children.
Gala Chair Cindy Lee, CEO Lync Logistics
Gala Co Chair Taylor Lee Vinson, VP Lee Smith Trucking
The Chattanooga Gala is an American Cancer Society Distinguished event which accounts for 60% of the Chattanooga area revenue budget that helps to fund local resources. Resources provided include transportation grants provided to our area hospital partners, lodging for those in need of a place to stay while receiving treatment locally and navigational resources for patients and families to guide them through their journey with cancer.
In 2022 the Chattanooga Gala raised over $240,000; in 2023 $310,000. The goal for 2024 under the leadership of our Co Chairs Cindy Lee and Taylor Lee Vinson, is $350,000.
Over 80% of all revenue is put back into the mission addressing the needs of all cancer patients locally and statewide. In 2023 Chattanooga hospitals received over $30,000 in grant money to help those in need with transportation and lodging. Our Nashville HOPE lodge provided over 900 days of lodging and a home away from home to eleven Chattanooga patients and caretakers in need of treatment that our area hospitals could not provide. Your support makes a difference, so together let’s continue to improve the lives of those in their fight with cancer. We look forward to having you join us on October 25 as we come together as we raise money for those in their fight with cancer and put an end to cancer as we know it for everyone.
