Cancer touches every one of us—whether through family, friends, or personal experience. It is a fight that reaches into countless lives and leaves no heart untouched. The American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball exists to honor that reality: to remember those we have loved and lost, to stand beside those who are bravely fighting, and to fuel the hope that one day, cancer will no longer define so many of our stories.

It is with great honor that I serve as the 2026 Chairperson of the Cattle Baron’s Ball. This year, I am dedicating our mission to all the people who give us hope. The ones walking among us every day—survivors, fighters, caregivers, and advocates—and the ones whose courage and legacy give us that driving charge to keep pushing forward in the search for a cure.

My father, Steve Gilmore, is the honoree for the 2026 Cattle Baron’s Ball. In 2012, he was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. Through grit, faith, exceptional care, and an unbreakable will, he fought a battle many are told they cannot win—and he survived. His journey is a living testament to what hope, research, early detection, and unwavering support can accomplish. He represents not only survivors, but the reason we must continue this work with urgency and purpose.

In honoring my dad, we also honor every individual who has faced this disease head-on and every family who has carried its weight. We come together to raise awareness, offer support, and fund the critical research and patient services that save lives. Every dollar donated, every moment volunteered, and every voice raised strengthens our collective resolve to end cancer as we know it.

The Cattle Baron’s Ball is not only a tribute to those we have lost—it is a powerful symbol of hope for those still fighting. Funds raised support vital American Cancer Society programs, including grants to local cancer treatment centers to help offset patient costs such as gas cards for treatment travel, as well as free lodging for patients and caregivers at Hope Lodges across the United States, including several here in Texas. These resources ease the burden of treatment and allow patients to focus on what matters most: healing.

I have been in Central Texas my whole life; growing up in West & now raising my family in a small community outside of Waco. I have been raised around the Cattle Baron’s Ball & experiencing the magic that comes with it from the ripe old age of around 6 years old. My parents would attend & I knew what this foundation was doing for the community. I became an active member when I became the Portfolio Manager for Glazer’s Beer & Beverage 3 years ago & I couldn’t think of a better cause to dedicate my time to in 2026.

I am deeply grateful to our sponsors, partners, volunteers, and supporters who make this event possible. Your generosity is more than a contribution—it is a declaration that hope is stronger than fear, that community is stronger than cancer, and that together, we can make a lasting difference.

In 2026, we stand united for hope. We are comin’ for a cure—and I invite you to stand with us as we push forward, honor the fighters, celebrate the survivors, and fuel the future.

With gratitude and purpose,

Courtney Gilmore Price
2026 Chairperson
American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball