The perfect balance
Funds and awareness raised for preventable injuries
When t hrowing a gala t hat deals wi t h sensitive subjects, it can be tricky to strike a balance between important messaging and showing guests a good time. The recent Parachute Gala co- chaired by powerhouse couple Michael Budman and Diane Bald did just that.
With “Wednesday Night Live,” the pair helped raise awareness of preventable injuries so that Canadians can better understand how to heighten their safety at home, at play, at work and on the road. The gala also highlighted the work of the brilliant Dr. Charles Tator.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Gordon and Kathleen Stringer took to the stage to share the story of their daughter Rowan, who succumbed to her injuries following a concussion received during a high school rugby match in 2013. The same powerful emotions were shared when Ned Levitt, Parachute board member, along with wife Cheryl, presented the Stacey Levitt Memorial Award in their daughter’s name to student Jenicca Jean.
The best part of the night? Probably when host Dan Aykroyd did a surprise performance that had the entire room dancing. Guests like Eugene Levy, Mike Babcock and Norman Jewison were treated to a night of performances by America’s Got Talent finalist Laura Bretan, Academy and Grammy Award- nominated musician Stephan Moccio, Fefe Dobson, Ryland James and the incredible Alan Frew of Glass Tiger.
Parachute is a national charity dedicated to reducing the devastating impact of preventable injuries. The financial toll is staggering with injuries costing the Canadian economy $ 27 billion a year. Through education, knowledge and empowerment, Parachute is working to save lives and create an injury-free Canada. “Distracted driving, concussion and all other forms of preventable injury impact so many of our lives.” said Bald. “Most are unaware that they are the No. 1 killer of Canadians between the ages of 1 and 44. And yet 90 per cent of them are preventable, which is why Michael and I decided to become involved. Parachute does great work across Canada but is a relatively new organization. We wanted to help raise the profile of this issue.”
Over $1 milli on was raised. For more information, please visit the organization’s website at: parachutecanada.org.