Fred Lee’s social network
IN FULL BLOOM One of the leading dates on the charity circuit — the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Ball — once again proved why the event remains one of the province’s preeminent fundraisers.
In its 21-year history, the Daffodil Ball has raised an impressive $15.6 million for the fight against cancer. This year’s gathering once again had all the ingredients for a memorable night: A beautiful room, glamorous crowd, a very important cause — it was the perfect party mix.
The 2017 edition focused on raising funds for metastatic cancer, that spreads from the primary site to other parts of the body. Declared the final frontier in cancer treatment, scientists believe the day metastatic cancer can be successfully treated is the day cancer transforms from a disease that kills to one that people can live with.
The cause drew 550 well-heeled guests to the $550-a-plate dinner at the Hotel Vancouver. Presented by Silver Wheaton and organized by a 19-member committee of business leaders and prominent philanthropists led by Carly Monahan and Jennifer Traub, the posh party began with a sparkling Champagne reception before attendees sat down to a royal repast and spirited auction.
A One Ocean Antarctica Adventure, which raised $35,000, was one of many party highlights. Another was the always popular Dipping for Diamonds raffle, a staple of the Daffodil Ball, that saw gala-goers vie for Lucara Diamond’s 2.49 carat pear shaped diamond pendant valued at $145,000.
Over the course of the magical evening, attendees funded four metastatic cancer researchers in Canada by giving almost $1.5 million. Monies will support the work of Drs. Calvin Roskelley (University of British Columbia), Stephen Robbins (University of Calgary), Charles Cunningham (Sunnybrook Research Institute) and Douglas Gray (Ottawa Hospital Research Institute), all on the brink of making significant breakthroughs in the treatment of metastatic cancers.
“Each year we are humbled to witness the generosity of individual and corporate donors who attend the Daffodil Ball to support our fight against cancer, and this year was no exception,” says Faye Wightman, interim executive director, Canadian Cancer Society of B.C. and Yukon. “We need to fund more research to uncover ways to stop cancer from spreading, and our compassionate gala donors stepped up to the plate to help us do exactly that,” she adds.
COMMUNITY OUTPOURING For more than 35 years, Sources has been a source of help, encouragement and hope to individuals and families in White Rock, Surrey, Delta, Langley and Prince George.
The charitable society of some 600 staff and volunteers delivers social and wellness programs to 30,000 residents yearly, offering support programs — many of them entirely community funded — to those coping with addiction, conflict, disability, isolation, and poverty.
The foundation recently staged its premier fundraiser — its 22nd instalment — at the Hazelmere Golf and Tennis Club. A cirque affair, the Blanc et Noir themed gala, sponsored by Scotiabank and chaired by Michael Stuart, president of West Coast Golf Group, saw more than 250 guests run away to join the circus and be part of the society’s greatest show on earth.
The country club was transformed into a fun house complete with musicians, contortionists, and high-flying fundraising acts. Yours truly was ringmaster for the live auction of unique one-of-akind experiences. A Seattle Mariners weekend getaway hit a home run fetching $7,000, while a sunset cruise captained by Stephen
Casson — a major Sources supporter — garnered an impressive $12,000.
But the biggest moment of the evening came when Sources CEO
David Young invited partygoers to simply make a gift. Stuart led the way announcing a $20,000 donation. Others quickly followed as gifts ranging from $250 to $5,000 poured in.
“While the party colours were black and white, it became clear the dominant hue of the night was green as the many displays of love resulted in a record-setting $200,000 raised. Thank you to our sponsors and donors for their generous contributions, the staff and volunteers for their time and effort, and our marvellous guests,” said Stuart.
“Because of their generosity, we can continue to provide and improve our programs and services to individuals and families in our community,” he adds.