WESTPORT–Tina Knowles—breast cancer survivor, philanthropist, and mother of the iconic superstar, Beyoncé—headlined Pink Aid’s annual fundraising gala in Westport on October 8. The Pink Royale gala, held at the Mitchells flagship store at 670 Post Road E during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aimed to raise $1.5 million for Pink Aid.

Founded in 2011, Pink Aid provides emergency financial assistance–and other resources–to underserved breast cancer patients and their families. The aid covers nonmedical expenses that can become difficult to manage during treatment, including housing costs, utility bills, food and transportation. According to the organization, Pink Aid’s signature Pink Purse program has provided more than $5.5 million in emergency financial assistance to over 11,200 breast cancer patients. The nonprofit works with more than 1,200 hospital social workers across 400 hospitals nationwide to connect patients in active treatment with assistance within 48 hours.

Knowles was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer after a routine mammogram was canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic and she fell behind on her screenings. She underwent a lumpectomy and is now cancer-free. Since her diagnosis, Knowles has spoken publicly about the importance of routine screening and early detection. She shared her experience with breast cancer at the gala, as the nonprofit raised support for patients struggling with the financial burdens of treatment.

The evening also featured Pink Aid’s Celebration of Life Warrior Fashion Show, a longstanding tradition recognizing breast cancer survivors and the family members, friends and loved ones who support them throughout diagnosis and treatment. Approximately 500 Warriors have participated in Pink Aid’s Connecticut runway shows over the years, according to the organization. Additional highlights included a designer fashion show presented by Veronica Beard, a silent auction benefiting Pink Aid’s programs and a musical performance by students from Westport’s Staples High School.

“The event brings together the people who have helped Pink Aid grow from a local effort into a national lifeline for families facing breast cancer,” said Amy Katz, Pink Aid’s co-founder and founding board chair. “Every dollar raised helps us reach another patient who needs immediate support with the everyday expenses that do not stop when treatment begins “We want patients to be able to focus on getting well, not on whether they can afford their next utility bill or get to their next appointment.”