September 21, 2024: Save the Date for the Austin Hatcher Foundation's 17th Annual Celebration of Life and Hope Gala
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Feb. 12, 2024) – Save the date! The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer will be presenting its 17th annual Celebration of Life and Hope gala event on September 21, 2024. This inspiring evening boasts hundreds of auction items and supportive attendees, delicious food and drinks, live music, family testimonies, and more. All funds raised go to providing families faced with childhood cancer 100%-free mental, behavioral health, and educational services. The Celebration of Life and Hope will take place at the Foundation’s Education Advancement Center in Chattanooga, with early-bird tickets available beginning in July 2024.
Event Chairs: The Pattersons
This year’s Celebration of Life and Hope is chaired by Kiran & John Patterson.
“The Austin Hatcher Foundation provides hope to families who are facing childhood cancer,” said Kiran. "John and I find purpose in partnering with organizations who "stand in the gap" for children and families who need it most. AHF isn’t just a nonprofit; it’s a community lifeline, providing the support needed to navigate the emotional complexities of pediatric cancer. We're honored to chair this cause at the Celebration of Life and Hope this year, echoing the sentiment of love and resilience that defines the essence of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.”
Kiran is the Event Coordinator at Material Handling, Inc. and John is the Vice President of Fleet Solutions at Material Handling, Inc. They have two children: Madeline (age 24, Natura Bissé Corporate Trainer) and John Frank (age 20, student at the University of Georgia).
Honoree Family: The Ottermans
Every year, the Celebration of Life and Hope honors one family facing the effects of childhood cancer. This year, the Foundation honors the Otterman family. Parents Mike and Traci Otterman lost their daughter Simone to Leukemia in 2015. Simone touched many hearts during her courageous battle with childhood cancer, and Mike and Traci have been unwavering advocates for pediatric cancer support. Simone’s sisters, Jade (age 15) and Cali (age 6) will be honored as well in recognition of their unique journey.
“As we look back on our journey with childhood cancer and the loss of our Simone, we couldn’t be more thankful to have the Austin Hatcher Foundation in our corner,” said Traci. “They’ve been a source of support, encouragement, and healing for our family and we’re so humbled to be recognized as the Honoree Family this year.”
The Austin Hatcher Foundation
The Austin Hatcher Foundation provides comprehensive, coordinated care to entire families faced with a pediatric cancer journey. Evidence-based services, such as Mental and Behavioral Health Therapy, Individual and Group Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Grief Counseling, Educational Support, Family Programs, and more, are offered for the entire lifetime of the entire family, no matter what happens in diagnosis. All services are provided at completely no cost, as the Foundation is 100% funded by donations, supporters, sponsors, and fundraisers like the Celebration of Life and Hope.
The Celebration of Life and Hope is highlighted by a large silent and live auction bidding. Any person or company may donate new items for the auction now by contacting Georgia@HatcherFoundation.org.
Businesses and organizations are encouraged to join and sponsor the Celebration of Life and Hope 2024. Anyone interested should contact Melanie@HatcherFoundation.org. Sponsorship opportunities at all levels are available.
For more information about the event or to learn about the Austin Hatcher Foundation’s mission, please visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.
