VANCOUVER, BC - One of Vancouver’s most anticipated annual fundraisers celebrated its 28th year with an incredible achievement, raising more than $4.4 million for the Canadian Cancer Society. Bringing together some of the city’s most prominent business leaders and philanthropists, this year’s Daffodil Ball, The Sky’s the Limit, will fund innovative research projects to help people diagnosed with cancer—both locally and across Canada—live longer, fuller lives.
Since 1997, the Daffodil Ball has raised more than $26 million for the cancer cause. Funds from this year’s gala will be directed toward the Canadian Cancer Society’s recently announced Disruptive Innovation Grants in Cancer Research program, designed to fund novel research ideas that will change the way we prevent, diagnose or treat cancer. This program was created in partnership with the Lotte & John Hecht Memorial Foundation, an important collaborator who contributed $2 million.
“Every 3 minutes, someone in Canada hears the words, ‘You have cancer,’ and their life changes forever,” says Andrea Seale, CEO, Canadian Cancer Society. “Disruptive Innovation Grants will enable researchers to test out new and revolutionary ideas that have the potential to transform outcomes and save lives. Fueled by the energy, generosity and collective focus of all those who attended this year’s Daffodil Ball, we can work together to close the historical gap in our research funding ecosystem, resulting in measurable progress.”
This year’s event was presented by long-time sponsor Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. and organized by a committee of dedicated business leaders and humanitarians, led by co-chairs Jennifer Traub, Meghan Brown and Jill Arias. Notable attendees included British Columbia’s Premier, the Honourable David Eby, and the Honourable Adrian Dix, Minister of Health and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs.
Gathering for the first time at the Vancouver Convention Centre, guests were able to enjoy an intimate dinner and live entertainment, including a special performance by Serena Ryder. The Daffodil Moment, a moving highlight of the evening, featured a patient speaker and two CCS-funded researchers, emphasizing that we all have a part to play in changing the future of cancer.
Guests had the opportunity to bid on a variety of luxury items in both live and silent auctions. An annual ball tradition, attendees were also thrilled to take part in the Diamond Raffle for a chance to win a stunning 18k white gold diamond tennis bracelet, generously donated by Minichiello Jewellers and valued at nearly $22,000.
“It takes all of us to take on cancer,” says Seale. “We are beyond grateful for the unwavering commitment of the Daffodil Ball committee and Vancouver’s business and philanthropic community to making a difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.”
To find out more information or to make a donation, please visit www.daffodilballbc.ca
About the Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save and improve lives. We raise funds to fuel the brightest minds in cancer research. We provide a compassionate support system for all those affected by cancer, across Canada and for all types of cancer. Together with patients, supporters, donors and volunteers, we work to create a healthier future for everyone. Because to take on cancer, it takes all of us. It takes a society.
Help us make a difference. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit cancer.ca today.
For more information, please contact:
Georgia Hennessy Jackson,
Manager, Fundraising Communications & Story Centre
(778) 922-3022