| DENIM & DIAMONDS BRINGS 'SHIMMERING HOPE' TO PATIENTS AND FAMILIES ACROSS CENTRAL ILLINOIS |
SEPTEMBER 21, 2026
SPRINGFIELD, ILL.
Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU School of Medicine will host its 26th annual Denim & Diamonds fundraising gala on Saturday, Oct. 10.
The signature event features auctions, raffles, live entertainment and dinner to support local cancer research and patient programs. Proceeds benefit cancer studies and services that improve the lives of patients and families throughout central Illinois.
The festivities begin at 6 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield. Guests are encouraged to wear denim, formal attire or a stylish combination of both. |
The event features one of the largest silent auctions in the region, showcasing sporting event tickets, original artwork, one-of-a-kind jewelry and more. The live auction offers vacation homes, gourmet dinners and other exclusive experiences. Guests will also enjoy dinner and live music by Kapital Sound.
“As a cancer survivor, I can appreciate this year's theme, Shimmering Hope. I know hope can make all the difference,” said Shelly Lewis Nielsen, co-chair of Denim & Diamonds 2026. “Denim & Diamonds is a chance for our community to come together and help ensure patients have access to compassionate care, innovative research and the support they need throughout their cancer journey.”
“For me, Denim & Diamonds represents the spirit of this community and the mission of Simmons Cancer Institute,” said Mary Stewart, 2026 event co-chair. “The funds raised are going to help advance local cancer research and patient programs to benefit patients and families in our area.”
In addition to medical treatment at Simmons Cancer Institute, patients and caregivers have access to complimentary services such as yoga, fitness classes, wigs and wellness programs at no cost, regardless of where they receive cancer care.
This year's presenting sponsors are Roland and Linda Folse, Memorial Health and Simmons Hanly Conroy. Additional major sponsorship support is provided by Isringhausen Imports, Jeff and Tina Bennett, BRANDT, HSHS St. John's Hospital, and Pete and Melinda LaBarre.
Tickets are $150 per person or $1,500 for a table of 10 and are available by calling 217-545-2955. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at Denim & Diamonds 2026. |
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