Stewart’s Caring Place celebrates 23rd Annual Butterfly Gala
AKRON — Stewart’s Caring Place announced the success of its 23rd Annual Butterfly Gala, held Aug. 29 at a private residence in Hinckley.
More than 450 guests attended the event, generating substantial philanthropic support for the organization’s free cancer support programs and services.
The Butterfly Gala is Stewart’s Caring Place’s annual signature fundraiser, bringing together supporters, advocates, cancer survivors, caregivers and community partners to advance its mission. Guests enjoyed dinner, cocktails, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, and the organization’s signature Raise the Paddle, all in support of free cancer support services.
The 2026 Spirit Award was presented to Akron Bikers for Boobs for the organization’s fundraising and advocacy efforts.
The nonprofit also presented the 2026 Spirit Award to Akron Bikers for Boobs. The award recognizes individuals and organizations whose dedication, generosity and service create meaningful change for those impacted by cancer. According to organization officials, through years of fundraising, advocacy and community support, Akron Bikers for Boobs has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local cancer organizations, much of which has directly benefited Stewart’s Caring Place and the individuals and families it serves.
“The Butterfly Gala is more than a fundraiser. It’s a powerful reminder that no one has to face cancer alone,” said Sarah Vojtek, president and CEO of Stewart’s Caring Place. “Every person in the room played a role in helping ensure that individuals and families impacted by cancer have access to support, resources and a community that walks beside them throughout their journey. We are deeply grateful for the generosity that makes this work possible.”
To honor the many unique experiences of the cancer journey, guests participated in an interactive floral experience featuring flowers provided by Heads-Up Flowers. Attendees selected blooms representing their personal connection to cancer, including survivorship, caregiving, remembrance and support. Guests then worked together to create a shared centerpiece for their table, representing the many different paths, perspectives and experiences that make every cancer journey unique.
Phil and Sarah Bokovitz — both cancer survivors and advocates of Stewart’s Caring Place — were the emcees for the evening.
“For nearly seven years, Stewart’s Caring Place has been there for every chapter of our family’s journey,” said Phil Bokovitz. “When Sarah was the patient. When I became the patient. When our children needed a place that understood — [Stewart’s Caring Place] never stopped showing up.”
Sarah Bokovitz highlighted the organization’s unique role in the cancer care continuum.
“Research saves lives. Doctors save lives. Hospitals save lives. But Stewart’s Caring Place does something beautifully different,” she said. “They care for the patient, the spouse, the caregiver, the children. The emotional weight that no doctor can prescribe medicine for. Those are the things families don’t know they’ll need until they do.”
All proceeds from the Butterfly Gala directly support Stewart’s Caring Place’s free programs and services, including counseling, support groups, integrative wellness programs, family and children’s services, wigs and prosthetics, nutritional support and other resources designed to reduce the emotional and financial burdens of cancer.
Written by a Staff Writer at Akron.com.
Originally published by Akron.com on September 24, 2026.