The latest act in AutoNation’s longstanding initiative to support the fight against cancer is sure to have people dancing for joy.

The nationwide auto retailer surprised former professional ballerina Anna Wassman-Cox, a two-time breast cancer survivor and founder of the nonprofit Onco-Ballet Foundation, with a $25,000 donation to support cancer patients and survivors through the healing power of ballet.

The donation was featured the Oct. 24 episode of the syndicated “The Drew Barrymore Show.”

The Onco-Ballet Foundation, created by Wassman-Cox in 2023, offers free and low-cost ballet classes to cancer patients and survivors, helping them strengthen their bodies and reconnect with their minds and spirits while alleviating the emotional and financial burdens of cancer treatment.

The foundation, located in Irvine, Calif., relies on donor funding to offer its classes and programs.

During the show, Wassman-Cox said she got the idea for the foundation as she was undergoing treatment for breast cancer for the second time. She went back to ballet to help her through her recovery and realized she could share that experience with other cancer patients and survivors.

“This generous donation from AutoNation has truly touched my heart and inspired me to keep pushing forward,” Wassman-Cox said. “It’s a reminder that our work is making a difference, and with this support, we can continue to grow and provide more cancer patients and survivors with the healing power of ballet.”

The donation is part of AutoNation’s DRV PNK campaign, which has raised more than $40 million for cancer research, prevention and care. The company’s annual DRV PNK Across America, held in October to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, includes events for AutoNation associates and customers to drive awareness and raise funds for cancer research and treatment nationwide.

“AutoNation’s commitment to cancer awareness, research and treatment is an important part of our company identity,” AutoNation Southern California market president Mark LeCompte said. “Through DRV PNK, we are honored to support growing organizations like Onco-Ballet Foundation that provide innovative, holistic approaches to healing and wellness for the cancer community.”