By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 3/20/26 – On a beautiful Palm Springs evening, community, compassion, and purpose came together in an intimate and deeply meaningful gathering hosted by DAP Health. Held at the stunning private residence of Marc Walters and Yannis Bourodimos, Honoring the Women Who Shape Our Lives was more than an event, it was a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of women in our lives and the importance of advancing equitable healthcare for all.
As both a proud media partner through The Hollywood Times and a committed philanthropic supporter through the Milano Foundation, now honored to have taken a dedicated wing at DAP Health’s new Women’s Center, I was especially moved to be part of this extraordinary evening.
The home itself, a gorgeous and welcoming space that has previously hosted DAP Health gatherings, set the perfect tone. Guests were greeted with valet service, flowing libations, and elegant passed appetizers, creating an atmosphere of warmth and connection. Yet beyond the beauty of the setting, it was the purpose of the evening that truly resonated.
This special gathering centered around DAP Health’s Women’s Health Clinic initiative, an effort to address the growing healthcare needs of women in our community. The message was clear: while women have historically stood on the frontlines, especially during the AIDS crisis, caring for and advocating alongside men, it is now our collective responsibility to stand up for them.
Throughout the evening, a series of heartfelt and inspiring remarks brought this mission to life. Esteemed speakers including Sue Burnside, Scot Karp, Patrick Jordan, and others shared powerful reflections on community, gratitude, and the urgent need to invest in women’s healthcare. Their words underscored a shared commitment to ensuring that women receive the care, recognition, and support they so deeply deserve.
For me, this evening was especially personal. The Milano Foundation’s involvement with DAP Health has always been rooted in a belief that healthcare is a fundamental human right. Taking a wing at the new Women’s Center is not only an honor, it is a promise to continue advocating, supporting, and amplifying the vital work being done.
What made the night truly unforgettable was the sense of unity in the room. This was not just a fundraiser; it was a gathering of hearts and minds aligned in purpose. Every conversation, every toast, and every shared story reflected a deep understanding that when we uplift women’s health, we uplift our entire community.
Palm Springs continues to shine as a beacon of generosity, activism, and compassion. Events like this remind us that behind every initiative are people who care deeply, and who are willing to take action.
As we look ahead, the momentum generated from this evening will undoubtedly help propel DAP Health’s Women’s Health Clinic forward, ensuring that more women have access to the care they need and deserve.
And for those of us fortunate enough to be in that room, it was a night that will stay with us, not just for its beauty, but for its purpose.
Because honoring the women who shape our lives is not just a moment, it’s a movement.
