Saying thanks to donors

In the spring of 2003, the Alvin and Mona Libin Foundation presented the largest one-time donation to Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary.

The $15-million donation enabled the creation of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, a world-class facility for heart health research, education, and patient care. And the rest, as they say, is history.

The difference the institute has made to diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and palliation of cardiovascular disease has been great indeed and we can all be proud of the fact that such a vital facility is right here in our fair city. Where else but Calgary would one find such generous philanthropists as Alvin and Mona Libin to help make the institute a reality?

Celebration was the order of the evening Sept. 13 as scores of guests gathered in the Palomino Room in the BMO Centre for the institute’s 10th anniversary gala. The gala — The Beat Goes On — sold out in record time and highlights of the event were numerous indeed, not the least of which is the fact more than $750,000 was raised. Funds will be used for the recruitment of leading cardiovascular researchers at the U of C, as well as the completion of a new hybrid cardiac operating room to be in the McCaig Tower on the Foothills Medical Campus.

“The inaugural The Beat Goes On gala was a tremendous success,” said Dr. Todd Anderson, director of the institute. “The fact it sold out speaks highly to the dedication of our organizing committee and the generosity of spirit of our community partners. With all proceeds going toward the new hybrid cardiac operating room and to researcher recruitment, the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta will continue to deliver world-class cardiac care, education, and research.”

That two-time Juno Awardwinner Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida, a four-time winner with Our Lady Peace, provided a fabulous concert ensured all in attendance had a memorable evening.

The Best Goes On co-chairs, Ken King (wife Marilyn), president and CEO of the Calgary Flames, and Tony Dilawri (wife Ellen), partner at the Dilawri Group of Companies, are to be commended on their leadership, podium skills and corporate support of the institute.

Others in attendance at the glorious gala and fundraiser are pictured at right.