Marking a new chapter in the black-tie event's 40-year legacy,
new name reflects alignment with Blood Cancer United’s organization-wide rebrand
WASHINGTON, August 14, 2026 – After nearly four decades as one of the DMV region’s premier philanthropic events, The Leukemia Ball is entering a new era. In alignment with the recent organization-wide rebrand of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to Blood Cancer United, the black-tie event will now be known as the Blood Cancer United Ball.
The new name will be formally presented at the 40th annual event on April 10, 2027 which will again be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention. Blood Cancer United Ball reflects the organization's continued commitment to uniting the blood cancer community and igniting momentum. Since the event’s inception, business leaders, policymakers, philanthropists, healthcare professionals, patients, survivors, and advocates have come together raising more than $78 million in support of Blood Cancer United’s mission to cure blood cancer and improve the lives of patients and their families,
"This event has long been a symbol of hope, generosity, and progress for patients and families facing blood cancer," said E. Anders Kolb, M.D., President and CEO of Blood Cancer United. "Now, as the Blood Cancer United Ball, we are building on that remarkable legacy while embracing a name that reflects the full community we serve, and the united effort required to accelerate cures and improve lives."
The Blood Cancer United Ball will continue to serve as one of the organization's signature fundraising events that have enabled the organization to advance innovative treatments by investing $2 billion in breakthrough research, offer free support and resources, provide patients with $1.7 billion in financial assistance and advocate for policies that help cancer patients access quality, affordable healthcare. While the name has changed, the heart of the event remains the same: honoring survivors, remembering loved ones, celebrating scientific progress, and investing in a future where every person affected by blood cancer can thrive.
"As we begin this exciting new chapter, we are proud to carry forward the tradition, impact, and spirit that have defined this event for nearly four decades," said Ria Marcario, Executive Director of Blood Cancer United’s Mid-Atlantic Region. "We look forward to the Blood Cancer United Ball helping to advance our mission for many more years to come."
To learn more about supporting or attending the 2027 Blood Cancer United Ball, please visit: www.bloodcancerunitedball.org.
About Blood Cancer United
Blood Cancer United® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) is the largest global nonprofit focused on blood cancer patient support, research, and advocacy. Since their founding in 1949, the organization has consistently evolved to better serve people affected by all 100-plus types of blood cancer. Blood Cancer United funds innovative research, offers free resources and personalized support, and advocates at state and national levels for more accessible and affordable healthcare for all patients. To learn more, visit www.BloodCancerUnited.org.