Lighting the Way: How One Miami Organization Is Turning Breast Health Awareness Into Action
Ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Luminous Advocacy Project is bringing education, community, and proactive wellness together at its fifth annual Light Up the Night gala, “Fire & Light.”
For Marylin Dans, breast health awareness is personal.
At just 17 years old, Dans discovered a large lump in her breast. Thankfully, it was benign, but the experience stayed with her and eventually inspired a larger mission: helping women and men become more familiar with their bodies and more proactive about their health.
Today, Dans is the founder of the Luminous Advocacy Project, a Miami-based nonprofit focused on breast health education, awareness, early detection, and expanding access to care.
This October, that mission will take center stage at the organization’s 5th Annual Light Up the Night Gala: “Fire & Light,” bringing together community leaders, medical professionals, philanthropists, and advocates in support of breast cancer awareness.
Awareness as a Wellness Practice
At the heart of Luminous is a simple idea: knowing your body matters.
Through education, advocacy, and tools designed to encourage routine breast familiarity, the organization aims to help individuals recognize when something feels different and feel empowered to speak with a healthcare professional.
The nonprofit also supports outreach efforts designed to improve access to breast health resources and diagnostic services for underserved communities.
Miami Lights Up for a Cause
This year’s Fire & Light gala will mark the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with an evening dedicated to advocacy, education, and fundraising.
For a city known for glamorous events, the evening carries a deeper purpose: turning awareness into action.
Dans’ message is ultimately a simple one. Pay attention to your body. Advocate for your health. Keep up with recommended screenings. And when possible, help make those same resources more accessible to others.
Friday, October 2, 2026
7 p.m.
Four Seasons Hotel Miami, Brickell
Proceeds benefit the Luminous Advocacy Project.
For tickets and additional information, visit the event page.