Travel Brings our Hearts at Home
Published Monday, November 18, 2024
Auctioneer Extraordinaire Dave Jones kept the energy high and the crowd engaged, entertaining 250 attendees with his exceptional auctioneer skills throughout the evening.
What an amazing event! On Saturday, November 2nd, Fort William Historical Park set the stage for one of Thunder Bay's first and biggest travel events ever organized.
The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation's Resolute Hearts Around the World Charity Auction brought together friends, philanthropists, and travel enthusiasts in support of an incredibly important cause: expanding cardiac care right here at home.
Guests enjoyed a magnificent five-course dinner, expertly crafted by Executive Chef Franco Masdeo, with each course taking them on a culinary journey to a different corner of the globe. Sommelier Cale Graydon paired each dish with carefully selected wines, perfectly complementing the flavors.
But the real excitement came during the live auction, which took place between each course and led by auctioneer extraordinaire Dave Jones. Lucky bidders won dream vacations to incredible destinations like Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Switzerland, Italy, and even a customizable cruise for two.
Each one of these amazing locations was generously donated by our loyal donors. Special thanks to Rick and Kathy Ball, Susan and Dale Dubinsky and Joyce and Brent Dubinsky for Costa Rica; Susan and Cliff Freisen for Mexico; Chris Lenz for Panama; Jeff Walker of CAA for the Cruise; Julia and Kurt Baumgartner for Switzerland, with special thanks to Sean Davies and Bruno Neiderer.
The evening also featured a spectacular silent auction, offering stays in Lutsen, flights from WestJet and Air Canada, clothing and jewellery from local donors, and many many more fabulous items.
The best part of the evening? Every dollar raised supports the Our Hearts at Home Cardiovascular Campaign, helping bring life-saving cardiovascular surgery to Northwestern Ontario.
After a memorable evening featuring inspiring speeches from Dr. Mark Henderson and Adam Cianfagna, along with engaging activities, the event raised over $85,000! What an incredible achievement for a first-time event.
A special thank you goes out to our small but mighty organizing committee, including Anna Pascuzzo, Lis Masdea, Kobi-Lynne Perry, Roberta Sawchyn, and Elaine Graydon, Manager of Events at the Foundation, whose hard work and dedication made this event a truly unforgettable evening.
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, bid, and contributed so generously to this first-time event. Your support will make a lasting impact on cardiac care in our community. We couldn't have done it without you!