When Lyla Ross found out her evening of shopping would benefit cancer patients at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, the money she spent became about more than just the items she took home.

“I want to be involved in anything that has to do with cancer research, and when it involves shopping, that’s even better,” said Ross. “This is one of the only times my husband approves of me buying more jewelry.”

Ross, who is a cancer survivor, went to The Medical Center Auxiliary’s 21st annual Marketplace preview night at the Gainesville Civic Center on Thursday after hearing all proceeds would go directly to Radiation Oncology within The Cancer Center at the medical center.

“I know these doctors and nurses truly care about their patients, and I am so happy to be a part of this whole experience,” she said.

In its past 20 years, Marketplace has generated $1.7 million and had 4,000 volunteers come together to help make the event a success.

And according to Lynne Allen, director of volunteer services at Northeast Georgia Health Services, Marketplace chairwomen and community support are what make this an event not to be missed.

“The Marketplace chairs, Ellen Toms, Kristin Daniel and Emily Embry, are very talented, exceptional leaders. They have involved such an enthusiastic committee of volunteers who have been involved throughout the year planning and preparing,” Allen said. “The Auxiliary is so very fortunate to have such dedicated and talented volunteers.”

Bette Hutchinson, a Marketplace volunteer in years past, was at preview night to not only start some Christmas shopping, but also to show her support for the event.

“I have helped with Marketplace before, and it’s a really, really wonderful thing. Friends having a chance to gather and catch up and meet new friends, and I know every year I helped, we always wanted people to enjoy themselves and know their money was going to a wonderful cause,” said Hutchinson.

While the night included a silent and live auction, more than 70 merchants from eight states and a gourmet dinner buffet, Allen explained that Marketplace is focused on the well-being of the community.

“The main goal is to provide a fun, unique community event to enable The Medical Center Auxiliary to increase community friends and raise funds to benefit the quality of health care services in our community,” she said.

Marketplace continues 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. today and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St., Gainesville. Adult tickets are $5, and children under 12 are admitted free. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 770-219-1830.