[KHTS] – Circle of Hope hosted its annual Afternoon Tea event at the Robinson Ranch clubhouse to bring awareness and donations to the organization Saturday afternoon.

Circle of Hope is a breast cancer charity group that gives a wide variety of support to people going through the process of treatment, said organization President Pam Ripling.

“We offer educational, emotional and financial assistance to breast cancer patients here in Santa Clarita only,” said Ripling. “We help with their medical related bills. We also use the money to support (them) in emotional ways, like a support group.”

About 200 people attended the sold out event and all proceeds went to benefit Circle of Hope, Ripling said.

This year’s theme for the tea was “Moments in Time.” Each of the tables were designed around a certain era or an event or holiday that holds significance.

The tables were decorated from themes ranging from Christmas to the Los Angeles Kings.

Keeping to the theme, Ripling shared with the audience her moment in time, by telling about the birth of her new granddaughter an hour before the tea started.

Ray Tippit, executive director for Circle of Hope, also announced the organization’s expansion.

On top of breast cancer, Circle of Hope will now be providing support to other cancer patients as well, including those suffering from ovarian, cervical, testicular, uterine, prostate and colon cancers, said Tippit.

Almost as many colon cancer patients are coming to Circle of Hope as breast cancer patients, Tippit said.

The event’s title sponsor was Advanced Audiology, who donated $2,500 to Circle of Hope. Nola Aronson with Advanced Audiology presented the oversized check to Ripling.

A silent auction was also held, with all the items coming from businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley. Items up for auction, for example, were three one-hour training sessions at Vish’s Body Shop in Valencia.

“This event draws awareness to the community for Circle of Hope,” said Dante Acosta, a board member for Circle of Hope as well as a Santa Clarita City Councilman. “This one is a very special event for breast cancer awareness month.”

About Circle of Hope

Circle of Hope Inc. provides emotional, financial and educational support to those diagnosed with cancer in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Circle of Hope is dedicated to the Santa Clarita community. They started as a breast cancer organization 10 years ago and have been helping patients and families since.

Circle of Hope is currently treating eight colon cancer patients, along with breast cancer and other patients.

100 percent of donations and proceeds remain the Santa Clarita Valley.

Circle of Hope welcomes all members of the Santa Clarita community that have been affected by cancer of any kind including family, friends, and those who have long-since recovered from the disease. Their education and support services are open to everyone.

| Skylar Barti