Vancouver, BC – VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s 2019 TELUS Night of a Thousand Stars gala presented by Capital Direct was an outstanding success, raising $3.8 million and counting to support the Foundation’s new Brain Breakthroughs campaign and the most urgent needs of Vancouver Coastal Health’s hospitals, research facilities and health care centres.
The evening marked the launch of the Foundation’s Brain Breakthroughs campaign. During the evening grateful patient and gala ambassador Emily Chan shared her incredible journey of surviving a rare brain disorder thanks to the expert medical team at VGH.
Proceeds from the gala will be put towards advancing vital research on brain health issues such as traumatic brain injuries, Alzheimer’s, stroke, Parkinson’s and more. The campaign will support the best and brightest brain experts who are providing world-leading care today and researching the treatments of tomorrow. In addition, it will bring to BC state-of-the-art medical equipment to provide the best care when and where it’s needed.
“We are continually humbled by the philanthropic generosity of Vancouver’s community leaders,” says Barbara Grantham, President & CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. “This year, the Tsang family stepped forward with a $1.3 million gift, to support the purchase of VGH’s first 3T MRI machine. This new machine will lead to faster, more accurate diagnosis, and ultimately provide patients and families across BC with time. Time that saves lives. Time with the people we love.”
One in three Canadians will suffer from a brain injury or disease in their lifetime, and BC’s population is aging. This province is facing an increasing demand for capacity to care for disorders of the brain. VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Brain Breakthroughs campaign goal is to raise $35 million for people and care, technology and research. The funds will provide immediate support for clinicians and scientists who are providing the best care today and working on the treatments of tomorrow.
“Investment in health care is an investment in all of our futures,” says Barbara. “Thank you to our wonderful donors who made this event one of the most successful in all of our years.”
About VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation
VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is Vancouver Coastal Health‘s primary philanthropic partner, raising funds for specialized adult health services and research for all British Columbians. We partner with donors to drive innovation and sustainable health care at VGH, UBC Hospital, GF Strong Rehab Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, and Vancouver Community Health Services.
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Contact:
Sam Smith
Officer, Marketing & Communications
VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation
Email: sam.smith@vghfoundation.ca
Phone: 604-875-4676 ex. 69680
