Dancing with Our Stars will look just a bit different this year. For the first time in its 13-year history, the annual gala supporting the Children’s Tumor Foundation will take place virtually.
On Thrusday, Sept. 10, local Arkansas celebrities will compete to raise money and awareness for neurofibromatosis research and for the coveted mirror ball trophy. Months of rehearsals with local dance instructors will culminate in a one-time performance that raises money to fund critical neurofibromatosis research and supports local NF clinics.
This year’s Arkansas stars are:
- Shane Broadway, vice president for University Relations, ASU System
- Elicia Dover, KATV News Anchor
- Christina Lecuyer, confidence and success coach and former professional golfer
- Anne Imanuel Preston, TV News Anchor
- Dr. Greg Sharp, chief medical officer, Arkansas Children’s Hospital
“Dancing with Our Stars sells out the ballroom year after year, and we’re excited that this year, there is no limit to how many people can be involved,” said Lesley Oslica, Children’s Tumor Foundation Arkansas chapter president. “This year’s virtual event will maintain the central parts of the ballroom that support our mission that everyone is familiar with, like our silent auction, donations to vote and moving NF patient stories, but we’re excited about the new elements, like new sponsor opportunities and Watch Parties that will take place all over the state — and possibly the country!”
Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and may lead to blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, disfigurement, learning disabilities, disabling pain and cancer. It affects millions of people worldwide and may arise in any family regardless of gender, race or ethnic origin. While the FDA just approved the first-ever treatment, Koselugo (selumetinib), for inoperable plexiform neurofibromas, there is no cure at this time for NF.
Since its inception, the Arkansas Chapter has raised more than $2 million for NF research through its Dancing with Our Stars Gala and other local events. For more information or to purchase your virtual ticket or sponsorship, click here.