Leukemia Texas is gearing up for a monumental celebration as it hosts the 20th edition of its marquee fundraising event, the BEATLEukemia Ball. The event is set to take place on Saturday, June 7, from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Simmons Bank Pavilion, located in Dickies Arena.
This milestone event embodies the organization’s commitment to support Texans who are battling leukemia. Through patient assistance, research, and innovation, Leukemia Texas aims for a revolution in the research and treatment of the disease.
This year’s entertainment comes from The Fab Four, renowned as the Ultimate Tribute to The Beatles, fitting perfectly with this year’s theme. Sharon McGowan, the executive director of Leukemia Texas, is particularly excited about the band’s performance, even though she hasn’t seen them live yet.
“They have the ability to completely transform into The Beatles,” McGowan said, referencing the band’s commitment to hair, makeup, and costumes that reflect different eras of the legendary group.
The concert will feature three sets with two costume changes, promising a captivating journey through rock ‘n’ roll history. McGowan shared that a past executive director discovered The Fab Four while attending a performance in Las Vegas and instantly knew they were the ideal choice for the unique fundraiser.
The excitement continues throughout the week with a series of fundraising events. On Thursday, June 5, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., John Einarson, a Canadian music historian, will host a fundraiser at Mira Vista Country Club in Fort Worth. Guests can enjoy a Tex-Mex buffet dinner followed by a presentation featuring stories from Einarson’s new book, “From Born to Be Wild to Dazed and Confused: Rock Music’s Revolution in 1968.”
Einarson’s extensive career includes notable interviews and writings about well-known musicians such as Neil Young and John Kay, demonstrating his deep roots in rock ‘n’ roll history.
Einarson will also hold book signings at two locations: Barnes & Noble Hulen Center on June 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Record Town on June 7 from noon to 2 p.m.
In addition to these events, Dr. Paul Bowman, a retired pediatric oncologist from Cook Children’s Medical Center and his wife, Lois Bowman, a cancer and community advocate, serve as co-chairs of the organization. They have been involved with Leukemia Texas for several years.
The BEATLEukemia Ball will have a distinctive sartorial theme: attendees are encouraged to don ‘Sgt. Pepper chic’ attire, with an option for black tie.
As the event nears, Lois Bowman expressed her enthusiasm. “It really worked out for us when we moved to Fort Worth ten years ago, and we can’t wait to celebrate 20 years of making a difference,” she said.
Dr. Paul Bowman has been dedicated to leukemia research and treatment throughout his career, which has spanned over five decades. He notes that significant advancements have been made since he began as a medical student in the early 1970s, particularly in the area of childhood leukemia.
Having pioneered pediatric bone marrow transplants for acute lymphoblastic leukemia at Cook Children’s Medical Center, Dr. Bowman has been a leader in improving the quality of life for young survivors.
“While we’ve seen remarkable progress in treatment and research, there is still much to be accomplished,” Dr. Bowman emphasized.
Leukemia Texas was established by the late M.T. “Buddy” Minyard, founder of the Minyard’s grocery store chain, in honor of his wife, Clairene, who lost her life to leukemia in 1967. Today, his daughters, Liz and Gretchen, are actively involved as co-chair members of the organization.
Since its inception, Leukemia Texas has contributed over $10 million toward research and patient support, making a lasting impact on many lives.
To summarize the details about the BEATLEukemia Ball:
What: BEATLEukemia Ball, a fundraiser for Leukemia Texas
When: 5:30-11 p.m. Saturday, June 7
Where: Simmons Bank Pavilion, Dickies Arena
Who: The Fab Four, the Ultimate Tribute to the Beatles
What to wear: Attire is Sgt. Pepper chic with black tie optional.
For additional information, visit the BEATLEukemia Ball website.
image source from：https://fortworthreport.org/2025/06/01/beatleukemia-ball-ready-to-rock-n-roll-funding-for-nonprofit-working-on-defeating-disease/
