Chantal visits Richmond Hospital, performs at Gala

Richmond Hospital Foundation’s 15th Annual Starlight Gala was the most successful Gala to date, raising a record-breaking amount of over $460,000 in net proceeds. 

Richmond Hospital Foundation’s Leadership Award recipients Paramjit Sandhu (second from left) and his family attended an exclusive meet and greet with Chantal Kreviazuk at the 15th Annual Starlight Gala.

“To know that so many people in our community stand behind our health care professionals to support their work is truly inspiring,” said Natalie Meixner, Richmond Hospital Foundation President & CEO. “The funds we raised will make a real difference for patients and their families.”

On October 19th, a sold out crowd of 470 guests spent a spectacular evening at the annual fundraiser gala held at River Rock Casino Resort & Show Theatre. The event featured live entertainment by Juno Award winning singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk, with performances by the Richmond Orchestra.

“We are so honoured to be able to bring in an international talent and a great humanitarian. We’re thrilled Chantal Kreviazuk came to visit Richmond Hospital before the event,” said Ms. Meixner. “She really understands the human impact of health care.” Chantal Kreviazuk toured the mental health unit, the cancer care clinic, and the birth centre at Richmond Hospital on Friday to visit patients and brighten up their day.

Guests of the Starlight Gala also experienced the story of patient John Roberts’ inspiring journey following his surgery to remove a cancerous tumour in his kidney. Today, the Richmond resident, husband, and father of five is healthy and active again, thanks to contributions made by donors to purchase life-saving equipment.

Paramjit Sandhu and family were honoured at the event with the Richmond Hospital Foundation Leadership Award for leading by example and for their continuous commitment to give back to Richmond’s health care. Their efforts will be recognized with a plaque inside the walls of Richmond Hospital for years to come.

This year’s Leadership Challenge at the Starlight Gala aimed to raise funds for a new C-Arm, a diagnostic imaging tool used in the operating room to help surgeons clearly see the areas they are operating on. The current C-Arms in use at Richmond Hospital are well over 10 years old and in need of replacement.

Chantal Kreviazuk performed her song “All I Can Do” with the Richmond Orchestra Saturday night.

“The new C-Arm will deliver crisp, clear images with less radiation for patients and hospital staff,” said Dr. Gordon Houston, Vascular Surgeon at Richmond Hospital. “This modern technology will enhance our ability to perform complex minimally invasive surgeries.”

Since 1999, the Starlight Gala has raised over $3-million to improve patient care and health care services in our community and at Richmond Hospital.