Hospice gala raises $78,000

Maison Vale Hospice (MVH) held their Fundraising Annual Gala “Under the Big Top” on Nov. 19 and raised a total of $78,000.

The money raised was a 35 per cent increase over the 2014 gala.

The vintage-cirque themed evening took place at the Caruso Club, where guests enjoyed cirque themed performances, a plated dinner, and auctions.

The fundraising event welcomed close to 500 guests to share stories, express gratitude and raise money for the community hospice.

The funds were raised through ticket sales, generous donations and sponsorship, a silent auction as well as a live auction led by Gerry Lougheed Jr.

The event took a 1930’s vintage cirque theme as guests enjoyed acrobatic cirque performances by Spotlight Dance Company and a high energy musical performance by YES Theatre.

Magicians Nelio Caldeira and Ashwin Raj circulated throughout the hall and performed magic tricks as guests enjoyed signature candy apple and cotton candy martinis.

Kevin McCormick, Chair of the MVH Board, took the opportunity to recognize Past-Chair Lise Poratto-Mason for her dedicated work; Frankie Vitone, Senior Director, Care Coordination, NECCAC, was recognized for her devoted work in palliative care; and St-Joseph’s Health Centre also received an award for their continued generous support.

Angie Robson, Manager of Corporate Affairs at Vale, presented a cheque for $25 000 and the Chevaliers de Colomb Conseil 5005 presented a $3,500 cheque to MVH. Both donations were not included in the event proceeds.