The 16th Annual Runway to Awearness Fashion Show

Join us for a night of fashion and fundraising on Thursday, September 17 at The Fives from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. as we celebrate 16 years of Runway to Awearness in honor of our beloved Pat DiNunzio.
Your evening includes a complimentary drink (signature cocktail, beer, or wine), hors d'oeuvres provided by Together & Company, a silent auction, and an unforgettable fashion presentation. No valet parking is needed.
Connie Ballenger will present the latest fall fashions from Leál Boutique in Upper Arlington. Located in the historic Mallway of Upper Arlington for nearly three decades, Leál is more than a boutique — it is a cornerstone of one of Columbus’s most discerning communities. While their online collection offers a glimpse of their expertise, the boutique showcases an extensive array of premium designers and delivers the personalized styling experience that has defined Leál for generations of women.
About the Foundation
In 2009, Pat was diagnosed with Stage 3C ovarian cancer. One year later, she established the Patricia A. DiNunzio Ovarian Cancer Fund and, alongside Connie Leal Ballenger, owner of Leál Boutique, launched the Runway to Awearness Fashion Show — combining her passion for fashion with her commitment to helping others.
In 2015, the Patricia A. DiNunzio Memorial Scholarship Program was established to support nurses pursuing advanced nursing degrees. Each year, two scholarships are awarded to outstanding and compassionate staff members from OhioHealth Hospice House and The James Cancer Hospital. Ideal candidates are dedicated to caring for cancer patients while championing cancer advocacy and family-centered care principles. Recipients are selected by the DiNunzio family in partnership with representatives from The Ohio State University and OhioHealth Nursing Leadership.
In 2025, scholarships were awarded to Tiwana Simpson of OhioHealth Home Hospice and Jessica Junge of The James Cancer Hospital. As of May 2026, the foundation has proudly awarded 26 scholarships.
In 2020, the foundation helped expand the bereavement program at OhioHealth’s Hospice House by fully funding a service dog for both youth and adult bereavement groups, as well as individual counseling sessions. Kelsie, a sweet and friendly Goldendoodle, continues to bring comfort, smiles, and healing to patients and families during incredibly difficult times.
In 2022, the foundation continued its support of OhioHealth Stepping Stones, a children’s loss and grief program, and funded a nature-inspired healing mural at The Jamescare at Mill Run.