Each year, the Dallas Country Club becomes a beacon of hope and compassion for families facing the heartbreaking journey of pediatric cancer. The Love Luncheon, one of the city's most anticipated charity events, unites the community in support of Clayton Dabney for Kids with Cancer, a foundation dedicated to providing support to financially struggling families with children in the final stages of terminal cancer.
The event’s origins date back to 2016 when board member Jenny Saphier envisioned a special way to honor the birthday—February 6th—of Clayton Dabney, a young boy whose own battle with cancer ignited a mission of love and support. Since its inception, the event has grown in both size and scope. Over the years, the luncheon has hosted a range of distinguished keynote speakers, including Jenna Bush, Laura Bush, Barbara Bush and Babe Laufenberg, along with families and social workers served by the foundation.
A Lemonade Legacy: The 2025 Luncheon
This year’s Love Luncheon brought an inspiring theme centered around Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Founded by Liz Scott in memory of her daughter, Alex, who lost her battle with cancer, the foundation has raised over 300 million dollars for pediatric cancer research. "Hearing Liz speak was definitely a highlight of this year’s luncheon, as well as the entire lemonade theme," Director of Events and Communications Kate Click says. "She shared stories of her daughter and her desire to help other children, just like Clayton did 30 years ago when he was battling his own cancer. Their similarities are uncanny.”
In addition to sharing these emotional stories, the event underscored the urgent need for continued research and support for pediatric cancer. “Liz shared some of the trials and advancements they’ve seen and been a part of over the last 20 years and the benefits they’ve had for pediatric patients,” Click says. “Sadly, pediatric cancer isn’t going anywhere, so we will continue to serve families with 'Medicine of the Heart' when traditional medicine is no longer going to cure their child.”
The Heart of the Cause
Supporting Clayton Dabney for Kids with Cancer’s core mission to provide anonymous financial assistance to those facing the impending loss of a child to cancer, the funds raised by the Love Luncheon allow families to create lasting memories with their children during their final days. "What separates us from other groups is our commitment to anonymity," Click shares. "We want the parents to be the heroes, not us."
The foundation’s mission is seen in its efforts to support families like those who have shared their stories. "One of the most touching stories we’ve heard came from a 5-year-old girl with ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukemia) who lived in Dallas," Click says. "The family wanted her to spend her last days with her brother and sister who lived out of the country. Clayton Dabney for Kids with Cancer was able to fly them to Dallas so they could create everlasting memories with their sister before she passed away."
Another story highlighted a young boy from Houston who was battling neuroblastoma. “The highlight of his day was spending time in the bathtub listening to music,” Click shares. “When he became unable to get in and out of the bathtub, Clayton Dabney for Kids with Cancer provided him with a bath lift so he could continue to do his favorite thing.”
Community Support
These stories are why the community’s support is so crucial—it plays a vital role in making the Love Luncheon successful. Local vendors are an integral part of the event, with 10-12 participating each year, generously donating 22% of their sales back to the foundation. “Each year the vendors change but some, like Jeny Baker Jewelry and Colores Collective, come back every year," says Click.
Along with being a vendor, there are plenty of ways to get involved with the Love Luncheon and support its important cause. “We are always looking for new sponsors,” Click says. “Whether you are interested in purchasing a table for the event, setting up as a vendor or becoming a special sponsor, we have opportunities for individuals, families and businesses.”
Looking Ahead: A Decade of Love
As the Love Luncheon approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026, plans for the next event are already underway. Co-chairs Judee Barrett and Rachel Stephens are dedicated to ensuring the luncheon remains a success, continuing its mission of supporting families in need and raising awareness for pediatric cancer.
As the event grows, so does its impact. The Love Luncheon is not just a celebration of Clayton Dabney’s life and legacy; it’s a testament to the strength of the Dallas community coming together for a cause that is too important to forget. Every year, it reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable hardship, love and compassion can light the way.
As the event grows, so does its impact.
Love Luncheon approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026.