New York City - Led by founders Tamer Seckin, M.D. and Padma Lakshmi, the Third Annual Blossom Ball to benefit the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA), is set to be held at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at the New York Public Library on Friday, March 18, 2011. The special event will be co-chaired by Susan Sarandon, Cindi Leive and Eileen Guggenheim, with entertainment and music provided by Grammy nominee singer Bebel Gilberto.

Tamer Seckin, M.D. (Courtesy photo: Lawlor Media Group)

The Blossom Ball fundraiser is a black-tie optional event, which includes a cocktail reception, seated dinner and auction, entertainment and dancing. The menu will be crafted by Convivium Catering and guests will have the opportunity to bid on an exciting assortment of items from Charity Buzz.

The event, which is occurring during Endometriosis Awareness Month, will follow the EFA's Second Annual two-day medical conference, which unites global opinion leaders on endometriosis from the realms of molecular science, research, industry, surgery and those struggling with the illness. Taking place at the New York Academy of Sciences in New York City on March 18 and March 19, 2011, the conference will be comprised of a science and surgery symposium and interactive patient workshops.

Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA) began in 2008 with the sole mission to fight against the devastating effects of endometriosis, which affects one in 10 women. As a nonprofit organization, the EFA's goal is to raise awareness about the disease through extensive research and collaboration with scientists, women's health professionals and patients, as well as continued outreach and education efforts. EFA strives to further develop public knowledge and awareness of endometriosis promoting early diagnosis and effective intervention.