The Power of Pink in Pacific Palisades
By MARNI BATTISTA
July 15, 2009
Prominent Palisades couple Elyse and David Walker were recognized for their philanthropic contributions at the 11th Annual “Tribute to the Human Spirit” Awards Gala on May 7. Hosted by The Wellness Community-West Los Angeles, the event paid tribute to members of the community who are extraordinary role models and dedicated supports.
When Elyse Walker was a young girl, her mother, Barbara Feder, died from ovarian cancer. It was 1987 and Feder was only 40 years old. She had a loving husband, children and a successful business. Ovarian cancer stole Elyse’s mom’s life and her own life was changed forever.
“It took 10 years for me to even talk about my mother’s death,” says Elyse. She says she spent most of those 18 months frozen, living day-to-day as she tried to get through the family trauma. Yet despite being raised without her mother, Walker, who is the founder of her namesake fashion boutique in Pacific Palisades, was able to overcome her grief to become a loving mother and wife, as well as one of West Los Angeles’ most passionate civic leaders.
In her mother’s memory, Elyse created The Pink Party, a benefit celebrating women and fashion, which has raised more than $1million each year towards ending gynecologic and breast cancers that threaten women. All proceeds from the event go to the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute, where her husband, David, serves on the Board of Governors.
Elyse has done more than organize The Pink Party. She has taken her commitment to women’s cancer seriously, devoting time year round to this cause. In addition to inviting school-aged girls to her store to speak to them about careers in retail and fashion, Elyse reinforces the message she first heard from Maria Shriver while attending a charity luncheon.
“I tell these girls what Maria shared during her impassioned speech. She reminded me that giving back to the community is our civic duty, and that we must do what we can to make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate and suffering,” says Walker. “It’s important that young girls today understand this as they grow up on the West Side of Los Angeles.”
In addition, Walker takes her time to lead in-depth tours of the cancer center at Cedars-Sinai Hospital. During these walk-throughs it is Walker who introduces potential donors to scientists, answers a myriad of questions about the research lab and explains how their donations will help save lives.
Walker was recognized for her efforts at the 11th Annual “Tribute to the Human Spirit” Awards Gala as an honoree. Hosted by the Wellness Community-West Los Angeles, this event pays tribute to members of the community who are extraordinary role models and dedicated supports. According to Ellen Silver, executive director of the Wellness Community, Elyse and David Walker evoke human spirit in everything they do. “Elyse Walker is a good soul who is compassionate, giving and kind. Without their contributions during this tight economy we might not be able to sustain our ability to provide the workshops, exercise classes, and counseling services that help cancer patients and their families reduce the stress, anxiety, depression and fear that can accompany living with cancer.
Walker says she could not do what she does for cancer research without the tireless support of her husband David and their two children, Ryan and Kevin. “I’m very fortunate I have a partner who is my best friend,” says Elyse referring to husband David. “I couldn’t do it without his support, and the support of my boys who stand behind me even when I come home slightly disheveled and crazed. It means everything to me.”
Walker’s mother taught her that something worth having is often difficult to achieve, and she hopes her children understand this is why she works so diligently to enhance the community in which she lives. “Nothing is easy,” says Elyse. “I’m showing my children that those things which are worth having require hard work and determination.” Despite this work ethic when asked what her mother might tell her today, Elyse Walker’s voice softens as she remembers her mother. “‘Lysee,’ she would say, ‘good job. Now, take a break and go on a nice long vacation. You deserve it.’”
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Jay Schena Las Vegas, Nevada | 9:17pm on Thursday, October 29th, 2009  | Great article.. Your mother was very sweet and kind, she would so proud of you.. know your father and family for over 40 years...
A family friend.. |
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