Breast Cancer Survivors Strip For A Cure

Susie Straubmueller and Jonika Nix

Co-­chairs Susie Straubmueller and Jonika Nix are pleased to announce the inaugural Stripped: Deconstructed | Reconstructed event, an art exhibition, silent auction, and cocktail party benefiting American Cancer Society and Cattle Baron’s Ball, on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at The Goss-­Michael Foundation.

Inspired by her sister, Nancy Johnson, who is now in remission after battling breast cancer, Stripped for Cancer founder Susie Straubmueller set out to reveal the brave stories of breast cancer warriors, while raising crucial research funds to find a cure for this disease that affects one in eight women.

“After watching my sister fight breast cancer, I wanted to launch an event that would bring women together who are affected by this disease to show the rawness and realness of their journey—it’s not a pink and pretty one. But, there is beauty in the strength and grace of these women. The common denominator among all of them is that they are stripped— physically, emotionally, and spiritually—but they are only more empowered by the pain they have all been through,” said Straubmueller.

Breast cancer survivor Nancy Johnson

The exhibit will feature specially commissioned pieces, including a provocative art installation by director Tom De Nolf that alludes to the ubiquitous, undiscriminating nature of the disease. Also on display will be a series of original photographic works of breast cancer warriors that depict and personalize their journey through the disease.

Photographers include Mindy Byrd, Molly Dickson, Shayna Fontana, Maxine Helfman, Dylan Hollingsworth, Jeremy Lock, Chris Plavidal, Nick Prendergast, Steven Visneau, Garrett Williams, and Jonathan Zizzo, with select pieces available for acquisition via silent auction during the event. “These compelling works of art ultimately unearth true beauty under fire throughout these women’s courageous fight against the disease—beauty that’s often found in the most unexpected places,” said co-­chair Jonika Nix.

The evening will also feature a special performance by internationally acclaimed opera tenor and humanitarian James Valenti, along with pianist Mary Dibbern. The 2015 event is presented by BDO USA LLP and is in part made possible by sponsors including Negative Underwear, Black Book Ink, El Bolero, Le Bilboquet, Roof Tile & Slate Company, Deep Eddy Vodka, and Studio 204. Ticket are $100. To reserve tickets or for additional information, visit www.strippedforcancer.com.