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When a community rallies behind a shared mission, the impact is unmistakable—and this year’s Daffodils & Diamonds Luncheon brought that energy to life.

On March 5, 2026, supporters of cancer research and the National Foundation for Cancer Research came together at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland for the 43rd Annual Daffodils & Diamonds Luncheon and Fashion Show. For more than four decades, this beloved community tradition has brought people together around a shared commitment to advancing cancer research, and this year was no exception.

Food, Bidding, and a Shared Purpose

The morning kicked off with a reception and silent auction, giving guests a chance to reconnect with fellow supporters while raising critical funds for the cause. The energy in the room reflected what this event has always been about: a community that shows up, year after year, because they believe in the power of science to save lives.

Record-Breaking Generosity

Thanks to the generosity of everyone in attendance, the event raised over $107,000 to support NFCR and the Daffodils & Diamonds Accelerator Fund for New Therapies, which helps fund innovative research aimed at developing new treatments for cancer patients.

Science in the Spotlight

One of the afternoon’s standout moments was a presentation from Webster K. Cavenee, Ph.D., an internationally recognized leader in cancer research. Dr. Cavenee offered a window into the groundbreaking work happening in laboratories right now, and reminded the audience why continued investment in science matters so deeply.

Style Meets Purpose

The program also featured a vibrant spring and summer fashion show presented by Lilly Pulitzer, bringing color and energy to the room with the brand’s latest seasonal styles. It’s become a signature part of what makes Daffodils & Diamonds so special: the way it weaves together community, celebration, and purpose.

The Faces Behind the Research

Cancer survivors were honored during the luncheon program, their stories serving as powerful reminders of who this work is ultimately for. Every research breakthrough has a human face, and their presence made that impossible to forget.

Familiar Faces, Vital Partners

Longtime luncheon supporter Alison Starling emceed the program, bringing warmth and enthusiasm to the afternoon as she helped celebrate the collective impact made possible by this extraordinary community.

NFCR was also honored to welcome the founders of the Laughlin Family Foundation, whose presence spoke to the vital role philanthropic partnerships play in moving cancer research forward.

Building on Decades of Impact

This year’s total of over $107,000 is another boost to the hundreds of thousands of dollars contributed by this community over the years for life-saving research. Thanks to the dedicated volunteer committee and the loyal supporters who return each spring, NFCR-funded scientists are able to pursue bold ideas and push toward new therapeutic approaches.

Events like this one are a reminder that real progress is made possible by communities like this. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us, and we look forward to sharing more photos and highlights from the 2026 luncheon on the Daffodils & Diamonds Facebook page.