Life's Short, Eat Dessert First

14 years ago I received a breast cancer diagnosis and my life changed in the blink of an eye. I am forever grateful to The James for catching my cancer early. I knew several friends who had gone through breast cancer treatment, yet I quickly learned how very little I knew about the journey I was about to take.

At the end of my treatments, I decided I needed to do what I could to raise money for breast cancer research and bring awareness to what facing cancer can mean. That's how Life's Short, Eat Dessert First came to be.

This year my event is a hybrid one -- in-person on Sunday, October 17 and an online Silent Auction. Last year's online Silent Auction was very successful by reaching more people than when in-person. Plus holding an online Silent Auction eliminates that touchpoint at the in-person event, allowing more room to spread tables further apart.

Cancer does not take a break because of COVID-19 and neither will I. This year's in-person event will look a bit different. In addition to the online Silent Auction, I am taking many steps to help attendees feel as comfortable as possible. Offering an online event to those who are unavailable to attend the in-person event, or feel uncomfortable attending, allows more people to participate and contribute to this year's success. There are some yummy sweet treats to bid on. And lots of other fabulous items too!

My goal each year is to raise more money than the year before. Through this Silent Auction, the donations made on my donation website (www.give.osu.edu/lifesshort), and money raised at the in-person event, I'm hoping to exceed last year's event donation of $22,086! Together we are making a difference and I could not do this without you!

Paula Brose
14 year breast cancer survivor and thriver

2023 is my 16th annual Life's Short, Eat Dessert First breast cancer fundraising event!

When I partnered with The James for my event, it was an easy decision to select The Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research as the beneficiary. Why? The Spielman Fund is devoted to advancing research in breast cancer. 100% of the event proceeds goes to research at Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).

I am beyond thrilled to share that the 2022 event donation was an incredible $29,667! The highest yet - bringing the total over the first 15 years to more than $158,000!

The “Life's Short, Eat Dessert First” in-person event on Sunday, October 22 is SOLD OUT!

DONATE: You can be a part of this year’s event, whether attending or not, by donating at this secure website www.give.osu.edu/lifesshort

50/50 RAFFLE TICKETS can also be purchased, whether attending or not since you do not need to be present to win. Please contact me to purchase 50/50 raffle tickets. Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25. The winner receives 50% of the raffle pot and the remainder goes to The Spielman Fund.

Those who are attending the in-person event are in for a fabulous afternoon of delicious homemade desserts, life-saving information, and fun!

FEATURED SPEAKER: Dr. Roman Skoracki, division chief for Oncologic Plastic Surgery at The James where he focuses on reconstruction for cancer patients, particularly microsurgery and surgical treatment for lymphedema. He also serves as medical director of the Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center.

The Silver Lining to holding my event in-person and virtually is I can reach more people. So many incredible advances have been made in the last 16 years in breast cancer treatment. I'm grateful to everyone who supports this event! I could never do it without you.