Hundreds of local philanthropists from the Vancouver community gathered to raise $1.8 million in support of gynecological cancer research and patient care at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH). More than 350 donors, health care professionals, and community leaders attended the Shine-Cyber the Future Gala on March 1 held at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel. This futuristic and compassionate event aimed to raise funds for VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Gynecological Cancer Research and Patient Care fundraising initiative.

The goal of the gala was to help VGH purchase a groundbreaking visualization technology system, which will allow clinicians and scientists to identify specific types of cancer cells. By analyzing tissue samples and integrating pathology research, this technology will enable doctors to select the most appropriate drug treatments for cancer patients, ultimately enhancing care standards. With the growing and aging population, it is estimated that more than 30,000 people in British Columbia will be diagnosed with cancer this year, with cancer referrals expected to increase by 75%. Vancouver General Hospital is preparing to diagnose and treat the province’s most complex and challenging cancer cases.

Angela Chapman, President and CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, expressed deep gratitude for the Chinese community’s generous support. She extended special thanks to the event’s organizing committee chair, Ms. Pao Yao Koo and all committee members for their selfless contributions and efforts, which helped exceed the $1 million fundraising goal, benefiting cancer patients across British Columbia.

The Foundation would like to sincerely thank the event’s Title Sponsor, Vancouver Bullion & Currency Exchange, Presenting Sponsor Open Road Group, Banquet Sponsor Ratana, Reception Sponsor Phantom Creek Estates, as well as all other sponsors and donors for their generous support. A special acknowledgment is given to Mr. and Mrs. Tony and Louisa Ma for their generous $500,000 matching donation, as well as the four donors who responded to this matching challenge: Mr. John and Mrs. Carman Lum, Ms. Pao Yao Koo and Mr. Doug Kavanaugh, Peterson, and Mr. David and Mrs. Alice Chung, each contributing $100,000. These donations will play a critical role in advancing research, treatment, and training efforts, making a profound impact on many families and patients.

Event Chair Ms. Pao Yao Koo remarked that VGH boasts an exceptional health care team. The acquisition of this cutting-edge visualization technology system will provide better treatment and care for cancer patients, enabling quicker and more effective recoveries. She emphasized that charitable work can have an incredible impact on our families, friends and community, and expressed a hope that the event would inspire more young leaders in the community to be engaged in philanthropy, amplifying the positive effects of giving.

A vital contribution to saving cancer patients’ lives

Thanks to the generous contributions and strong support from philanthropists throughout British Columbia, the Shine-Cyber the Future Gala surpassed its initial goal of $1 million, raising a total of $1.8 million.

This funding will not only enable the purchase of groundbreaking visualization technology but will also support three years of specialized cancer care training, foster innovation, and cultivate future cancer care professionals through an advanced fellowship program. These contributions will significantly aid gynecological cancer research and treatment, empowering specialists with the resources they need to enhance their understanding of cancer and revolutionize cancer care, ultimately making more effective treatments and care a reality.

The event’s décor seamlessly blended high-tech elements with futuristic design, featuring sparkling lights and silver and blue tones to create a cutting-edge atmosphere. Guests were treated to a variety of special performances and interactive shows from four different performance groups, including modern ballet by Goh Ballet, classical vocal performances by Nebula Performances, a piano recital by renowned pianist Wenwen Du, and a grand finale performance by Dino Acconci and the Sunshine Nation Choir. The evening also featured an exquisite selection of food, caviar, and champagne from Phantom Creek Estates, as well as a four-course gourmet dinner for the donors. Additionally, six unique items were offered for live auction, raffle draw including a diamond necklace donated by Rome Station, with one lucky guest taking home the grand prize.

The event concluded with guests leaving inspired and fulfilled, knowing their contributions would make a lasting impact on cancer research and care.

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation partners with donors to fuel groundbreaking research, cutting-edge technology, and life-saving care benefitting everyone in BC. To donate, visit vghfoundation.ca/ways-to-give.