(CLAIR) – The Rotary Club of Simi Sunset is bustling with preparations for the much-anticipated 13th Annual Johnna’s Tea Party. The event, set to take place on Sunday, April 21, 2024, from 1 PM to 4 PM is renowned for its elegance and charm. Program organizers invite guests to don their finest hats and outfits for an afternoon filled with gourmet teas, delicious pastries, mimosas, and a variety of entertainment.
Johnna’s Tea Party is not just a social gathering; it is a heartfelt tribute to Johnna, a young woman from Simi Valley who passed away from cancer on March 21, 2009. In her battle against the illness, she was supported by a dedicated women’s cancer support group known affectionately as “Hany’s Hair Em.” This group, which included other women undergoing chemotherapy, often faced the distressing side effect of hair loss, which inspired their unique name—a homage to their caring oncologist, Dr. Hany Khalil, who is of Egyptian descent.
In memory of her daughter, Maryann Fiore Hopkins, Johnna’s mother, inaugurated the High Tea Party. Its primary goal was to support the cancer support group that had been a pillar of strength for Johnna during her treatment. Over the years, this annual tea party has grown into a key community event, drawing attendees from across the region and selling out quickly each year.
The funds raised from the tea party benefit the Marcelle Erian Cancer Foundation, established in 2011 by Dr. Khalil. The foundation is dedicated to providing essential support services to cancer patients who lack insurance. These services include counseling, provision of medical supplies, family support, and assistance with medications.
Each year, the event receives tremendous local support, illustrating the community’s commitment to continuing Johnna’s legacy by helping others fighting similar battles. As guests enjoy an afternoon of socializing and sipping tea, they also contribute to a cause that extends much-needed help to individuals and families navigating the challenges of cancer.
The success of Johnna’s Tea Party not only commemorates a beloved community member’s life but also mobilizes significant resources for the Marcelle Erian Cancer Foundation.
As preparations for the upcoming event continue, the community looks forward to another successful gathering, filled with joy, remembrance, and the collective goal of aiding those in need.
