Sipping on laughter
Comedians and fine wine highlight fantastic fundraisers
The Michael Garron Hospital Foundation’s Laughter Is the Best Medicine Gala, presented by BMO Financial Group, once again surpassed expectations on every level. One thing that patrons know about this night-on- thetown is that they are guaranteed a rollicking good time.
While Susur Lee provided an exquisite meal to the 1,000-plus crowd, comedic heartthrob Will Arnett handily took on the lead role of master of ceremonies. Headliners included Jim Gaffigan and Kevin Nealon.
“Will, Jim and Kevin were comedy gold! They had the entire room roaring with laughter and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of the evening, taking the foundation one step closer in our $100 million campaign,” said Michael Geddes, gala co- chair. “The generosity displayed tonight is heartwarming, and it’s a testament to the incredible work of the caregivers at Michael Garron Hospital and its integral role in fostering the health and vitality of one of Toronto’s most economically
diverse neighbourhoods.”
And this really was a family affair with the Stavro and Garron families out in full force.
Proceeds from the event will support the hospital’s monumental renewal and expansion. The newly named Michael Garron Hospital, formerly Toronto East General Hospital, received $ 50 million from Berna and Myron Garron, made in honour of their late son, Michael, who was born at Toronto East General. The foundation raised an additional $7.3 million (including two leadership gifts). If fine wines are your thing, this year’s France UnCorked was the place to be. Hosted at a beautiful Rosedale home, the fifth annual do was chaired by Cathy Martin and Liz Gallery. Thirsty guests sipped on wines from Chateau Leoube, Maison Sichel and Champagne Henriot, all while raising money for Grapes of Humanity.
According to Gallery, “The money we have raised has mostly supported the building of educational facilities in rural areas of economic hardship where resources are non existent or exhausted. Educating these children gives them hope and ultimately changes their lives and their future for generations to come.”
In the past, funds raised at this event have gone to build three schools in Coatpique, Guatemala, a prosthetic centre in Cambodia and an orphanage in Phnom Penh. There was a real “Rush” when the live auction got underway – and hands flailed about to bid on a VIP Via Rail train trip and wine tasting as the personal guest of Grapes for Humanity board member and Canadian rock legend Geddy Lee.
Sponsors included KPMG, Rogers and Portfolio Aid.
Laughter Is The Best Medicine Gala in blue ● UnCorked in pink ●