Celebration of Life and Hope

The semi-formal cocktail reception is the foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year, attended by hundreds of local leaders, families, and members of the community. Held at the Foundation’s renowned 33,000 sq. ft. facility located in Chattanooga, TN during the month of September in line with honoring Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Mark your calendars for September 12, 2026, and join us for our gala-style event full of family testimonies, live and silent auctions, music, an open bar, specialty cocktails, food, and entertainment all to support families impacted by pediatric cancer.

Each year, the Celebration of Life and Hope honors a family whose journey reflects the impact of childhood cancer. This year, we are proud to recognize the Pineda Vázquez family.

Originally from Mexico, they moved to the U.S. in 2020. Their lives changed in December 2021, when their son Jesús was diagnosed with a rare form of T-cell leukemia at only 10 years old. “We believe it was the hand of God that led us to the right place at the right time to get the care he needed,” says his mom, Sonia.

Throughout treatment and into survivorship, the Austin Hatcher Foundation supported the whole family with counseling, therapeutic programs, and shared experiences that helped them stay strong together. In May 2025, Jesús proudly rang the bell to mark the end of his treatment — a moment of joy and hope for the entire family. Jesús, who loves Star Wars, Legos, and Harry Potter, continues to thrive alongside his sister Tania, who enjoys gymnastics, Taylor Swift, and family game nights. Their story is a powerful reminder of faith, resilience, and the strength that grows when no one faces cancer alone.

This year’s gala is co-chaired by longtime Foundation supporters Daniel and Carol Yim. Carol serves on the Austin Hatcher Foundation’s Board of Directors and is an active volunteer in family programming, while Daniel is president of Kobayashi Consumer Products in Dalton, Georgia. Together, they help lead the event and engage the community in supporting families who need ongoing care, connection, and hope long after treatment ends.