Mondays Cancer Care hosted the 7th Annual Long Island Beauty Ball, on Monday, February 5th, 2024 at the Heritage Club at Bethpage.
The event, sponsored by New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, and hosted by Emmy Winning Former News 12 Anchor Carol Silva, honored Valerie Burger, RN, Mondays Executive Board and Northwell Health, Aimee Meyers, Davines North America and Eva Sarlis-Pappas, Owner Eva of Sayville.
“This year we decided to highlight these amazing women for their support not only of our mission but the cancer community overall”, said Karla Waldron, Executive Director of Mondays Cancer Care. “Each of these honorees has demonstrated time and again, their committment to ensuring that no one with cancer has to face this horrific disease alone."
Thanks to the ongoing support of the health, wellness, and beauty industries plus a strong community of volunteers and donors, this year’s event was a huge success. Proceeds from the event are used to maintain and grow Mondays programming, all in support of the overall mission to reduce the physical, emotional, and cosmetic side effects of chemotherapy and radiation; all at no cost to the client.
“Seeing leaders in the health, wellness, and beauty industries, along with business owners across Long Island, come together at The Long Island Beauty Ball in support of Mondays Cancer Care, confirms that we are on the right path in creating great change in how we take care of people going through this devastating disease,” said Alyssa Greiner, Assistant Executive Director, Mondays Cancer Care. “This event has captured the essence of the Monday’s mission and gives us the ability to provide these essential programs to more communities throughout Long Island, New York, and beyond.”
Our Honorees
Valerie Burger,
Northwell Health & Mondays Board of Directors
Valerie Burger has been a dedicated oncology nurse for over 30 years. Having graduated from Boston University, she began her career in neonatology, moving into pediatric oncology, with certifications in both oncology and pediatrics.
Valerie received two master’s degrees from NYU, one in the Delivery of Nursing Science, and one in Health Management. She later went on to receive a post master’s degree in holistic nursing from the College of New Rochelle. Valerie has undertaken many facets of nursing care; from management to academics, inpatient and outpatient care, bone marrow transplant, Home Care, and hospice. All focused on improving the lives of people and families living with cancer.
Throughout her career, Valerie has volunteered. Currently she is chair of the greater New York area board of advisors for the American Cancer Society and chair of the American Cancer Society board of advisors for Long Island. She is a consultant to the Islip Breast Cancer coalition, and along with being a longtime supporter, she is now a board member for Mondays at Racine. Valerie is currently completing a three-year term on the national board of directors for the Oncology Nursing Society where she has worked with oncology nurse leaders from around the country providing direction for over 100,000 oncology nurses globally.
Valerie is presently the Assistant Vice President of Operations for Northwell Health’s Eastern region hospitals where she oversees cancer programming for the Northwell hospitals in Suffolk County. In her role there she continues to support community outreach and community organizations like Mondays, to bring the strength of the medical system to cancer patients locally. Valerie loves using her nursing skills to help make people feel cared for.
Valerie lives in Nassau County and is married to the love of her life, Victor LaBozzetta. Her son, Lenny, daughter-in-law Betsy and daughter Sophia live close by with their combined 6 dogs. If the family isn’t supporting a cancer organization, they can be found at a dog rescue nearby!
Aimee Meyers,
Davines North America
Aimee Meyers is an industry-recognized commercial executive with 30+ years of experience in the cosmetic industry with a focus on professional haircare. An impactful leader, she’s known for business development and creating manufacturer programs that support distribution partners and salon professionals in growing their businesses.
Aimee’s relationship with Davines began nearly 13 years ago and her love for the brand has grown ever since. She is completely aligned with Davines’ purpose of doing the best for the world, creating good life for all, through beauty, ethics, and sustainability.
Aimee is passionately involved in many cosmetic industry associations, events, and charities. She also enjoys traveling, entertaining and spending quality time with her husband and her dog.
Eva Sarlis Pappas, Eva of Sayville
Eva's journey began in America as a young girl who immigrated from Greece, and has since forged an impressive path, establishing herself as the force behind the upscale clothing boutique, EVA Sayville. Through her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication, Eva has created more than just a business; she has built a small empire that caters to women from all walks of life.
With a keen understanding and innovative mindset, Eva has revolutionized the way gowns are tailored to accommodate the changing bodies of women undergoing chemotherapy or facing the necessary augmentation associated with breast cancer. Her commitment to making a difference goes beyond the doors of her boutique.
Eva has selflessly devoted endless hours, resources, and financial support to various organizations, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Her generosity extends to hosting and volunteering her goods and services at numerous fashion shows and events for a myriad of charitable causes. Eva's spirit shines brightly as she willingly lends a helping hand to families in need. She understands that sometimes, it's the personal touch or a small act of kindness that can make all the difference in the world.
