Getting wigged out is highly encouraged at the Young Adult Survivors United Halloween party, scheduled for Oct. 25 at the Rivers Casino Event Center in Pittsburgh.
The Wig Out party — hosted by YASU, a Pine-based support group for young adult survivors of cancer or those diagnosed at 18 to 45 years of age — is a night to let loose and have fun.
“For one night, they get to take a break from cancer and the everyday stress it causes. Their supporters join them as they celebrate life and their survivorships,” said Stephanie Samolovitch, founder and executive director of YASU.
Guests are encouraged to wear wigs and costumes to the party, being held from 6 to 10 p.m., which will include tunes spun by TJ the DJ, live performances by the Pittsburgh Samba Group, an auction, buffet, vendors offering free food and drink, and a Best Wig contest.
A VIP reception is also being held for sponsors from 5 to 6, with complimentary refreshments and a special dance performance by the owners of Nova Ballroom. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, according to Samolovitch.
All attendees must be 21 or older. Cost of a regular ticket is $75, and $130 for two tickets. Cancer patients/survivors/thrivers pay $25. Note that Rivers Casino enforces a strict policy against face paint or Halloween masks that cover the face.
Samolovitch, a former Hampton resident who lives in Mars, said the wigs make it even more enjoyable and relaxing, especially for those going through treatment.
“(Partygoers) love how everyone wears a Halloween wig and therefore can’t be identified as a cancer patient ,since everyone is in wigs. They laugh, dance, join one another on stage during the survivor dedication, and have something to look forward to as a community each year,” she said.
The nonprofit YASU helps survivors, along with their caregivers and co-survivors, to cope and thrive by providing emotional, social and financial support.
Samolovich, who was diagnosed with leukemia when she was a college junior in 2005, knows from her own experience that there aren’t very many support groups for people suffering from cancer in this stage of life, and to add on a financial burden makes it even more challenging.
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Wig Out will help raise money to support the nonprofit and provide services for people experiencing the same situation.
“It is YASU’s biggest annual fundraiser that helps us continue to provide a wealth of supportive programming for young adults impacted by cancer who have a variety of needs from emotional, social, financial and beyond. It also gives our members a chance to celebrate life with one another and receive the recognition and applause for all they’ve overcome,” said Samolovich, 39.
Last year’s party drew 600 guests and raised $64,000.
“Without the Wig Out, YASU’s services would decrease, some programs would be cut, and we know first-hand that they provide hope, peer connections, financial relief, and memory-making opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be possible,” Samolovich said.
Any young adult in the United States who has been diagnosed with cancer can register for a free membership to access YASU’s services, which include virtual and in-person support groups, educational speakers, wellness workshops, free counseling, social outings and free respite trip. YASU also provides financial assistance grants to members in need of additional support.
For Wig Out tickets and more information, visit yasurvivors.org or call 724-719-2273.