Join us at this year’s 2025 Red Door Community Gala
Each year, our gala is more than just a night of celebration – it’s a reflection of what happens when people come together to support one another through life’s most difficult challenges. As we prepare for this year’s event, we’re reminded of the courage and heart of those who have shared their journeys with us. One of those voices is RDC Member and Gala Committee Member, Paru Radia:
“Last year, I stood on the stage at the Red Door Community gala, looking out at more than 250 attendees, supporters, and donors. I shared my story, a story of grief, diagnosis, fear, and ultimately — of hope. Red Door Community made me feel seen, heard, and respected every step of the way. I wasn’t just another cancer patient to them; I was a whole person. They showed me kindness and compassion in a way that was genuine, generous, and deeply human. No judgment, and no pressure to do anything or be anyone I didn’t want to be.
Red Door Community truly gets what cancer does to a person’s life — physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially. They support not only those of us who are diagnosed, but also the friends, family members, and caregivers who walk alongside us. They do this with empathy and understanding, making sure no one feels alone on the cancer journey. It’s not just a tagline; they live it every day.
Their programming was exactly what I needed: it brought me back to a place of “normal.” When I attended, I wasn’t the odd one out, and I wasn’t the one that people had to be careful around. We were all in it together. Whether I joined a songwriting workshop, a cartooning class, or a comedy writing class to distract me from the hundreds of medical appointments, I was able to be myself again, even if only for an hour. I looked forward to the Zoom sessions; they were my safe place to land.
In a world where my sense of safety had been shattered, abandoned by family, unsure of who would stand by me, it was a comfort and relief to have a place like Red Door Community, where supporting people with cancer is what they do; and they do it well! I didn’t have to worry about leaning too hard on my friends or feeling like a burden to them, because I knew I also had RDC to hold me up. RDC took me from a place of scarcity to one of abundance, and from a place of fear to feeling calmer and more confident about getting through my diagnosis.
For anyone newly diagnosed, or closely connected to someone diagnosed, know that RDC truly cares. No matter your age, background, or circumstances, you will feel seen, heard, and supported here. Their offerings are as diverse as the people they serve, and their mission is crystal clear: to ensure that no one faces cancer alone.
Looking ahead, I know countless people like me will need help navigating a life turned upside down by cancer. RDC is here for all of us, in ways that are personal, practical, and rooted in deep care. They are not a distant, faceless organization. They are the crutches and the circle of support that so many of us need.
In a world that too often feels cold or disconnected, having RDC reminds us there is still extraordinary humanity out there — people and places willing to stand with you, no matter what.”
At Red Door Community, we create programming that meets people where they are, and we lead with compassion, creativity, and care. As we prepare for this year’s gala, Paru’s words remind us of why we do this work. Every day, people open our red door – seeking connection, comfort, and understanding. What they find is a community that refuses to let them face cancer alone.
Join us at this year’s 2025 Red Door Community Gala
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Location: Tribeca Rooftop, New York City
Tickets, sponsorships, and more event details available can be found here!
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