Blue Hope Bash Chicago
Thank you for joining us at the 5th Annual Chicago Blue Hope Bash. Because of your generosity this year, we have raised over $150,000 to support the Colorectal Cancer Alliance's mission to end colorectal cancer in our lifetime.
2026 Event information
On Friday, May 1, 2026, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance gathered at Galleria Marchetti to celebrate the 5th Anniversary Blue Hope Bash Chicago. This milestone evening brought the community together to honor those facing colorectal cancer, remember those we have lost, celebrate survivorship, and advance critical work in prevention, patient and caregiver support, and research.
Guests experienced a meaningful night of entertainment, cocktails and dining, and memory-making through the power of philanthropy, along with special anniversary moments and thoughtful surprises throughout the evening.
Date: May 1, 2026
Location: Galleria Marchetti
825 W Erie St
Chicago, IL 60642
Time: 6:30 - 10:30 PM
Attire: Cocktail Attire *Wearing blue encouraged
Please contact Kristen Cagadas or Sharon Lietzke if you are interested in getting more involved in the Midwest Region.
*Photo credits to DeAnda Photography
Our speakers
The evening will feature two powerful voices whose stories underscore the urgency and hope behind the mission.
Mike Lowe
Mike Lowe is an Emmy Award–winning general assignment reporter for WGN-TV and was named Journalist of the Year by the Chicago Journalists Association in 2024. Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2024, Mike has since used his wide-reaching platform to raise awareness about the life-saving importance of early detection and screening.
Greg Schwem
The program will be emceed by Greg Schwem, a nationally recognized comedian, bestselling author, and colorectal cancer survivor whose humor, candor, and personal experience bring warmth and inspiration to the night.
Sponsorship opportunities
Are you interested in making a deeper impact through event sponsorship? Event sponsorship can provide increased brand awareness, access to a focused audience and demonstrate brand values. Contact Kristen Cagadas, Regional Director of Community Fundraising - Midwest, at kcagadas@ccalliance.org or (202) 628-0123 with any questions.
Our 2026 Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors who help make the Blue Hope Bash Chicago possible!
Presenting
Platinum
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Our 2026 Host Committee
Dana Borror
Ashley Bowman
Alyson Byrne
Brian Czarnecki
Catherine Gillespie
Kathleen Hill
Jenna Kitchen
Jay Nadas
Kim Newcomer
Chris Perez
Brittany Rosheisen
Dawn Schneider
Jen Whalen
Joe Whalen
Experience the Bash: This Year’s Highlights
Take a look at the unforgettable moments from this year’s event! Get a glimpse of the excitement, the energy, and the fun — and see what’s in store for you next year.
*Photo credits to DeAnda Photography
Contact us today
Want to learn more about the Chicago Bash? Click below to contact Kristen Cagadas, Regional Director of Community Fundraising - Midwest, with any questions or inquiries.
Top resources
2025 Walk series inspired allies across the country
Across nine cities nationwide, our community showed what’s possible when compassion, determination, and action meet on the pavement to #WalkLoud.
Blue Hope Bash Celebrates Craig Melvin & Lindsay Czarniak for Commitment to Colorectal Cancer Advocacy
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance’s 2025 Blue Hope Bash in Washington, D.C., raised $2.1 million for colorectal cancer awareness, research, and patient support.
Volunteer spotlight: Greg Schwem
In this Q&A, get to know Greg Schwem, a passionate and dedicated Colorectal Cancer Alliance volunteer from Illinois, and sign up to be a volunteer yourself!