Under the Tuscan Stars Gala raises just over $500,000

Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s Under the Tuscan Stars Gala raises just over $500,000 towards redevelopment campaign

An inspirational evening shared at Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s 9th annual gala raised just over $500,000 towards Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s Bright Future redevelopment campaign.

The sold-out Under the Tuscan Stars Gala, presented by the Burnaby Firefighters Charitable Society, was held on October 27, 2023 at the Italian Cultural Centre. The evening was a night to remember, filled with glamour, entertainment, and a shared commitment to improving healthcare in Burnaby and East Vancouver. Generous contributions from close to 400 guests, sponsors, and supporters have further elevated Burnaby Hospital Foundation as a leading force in advancing healthcare excellence.

“It warms my heart to see the community come together with such strength to support Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s redevelopment,” shares Kristy James, Burnaby Hospital Foundation President & CEO. “Funds raised from the gala support a massive undertaking that will bring a number of life-changing upgrades to Burnaby Hospital.”

The much-anticipated event was emceed by TV personality, actor, and award-winning host, Todd Talbot. The evening featured performances by members of the Italian community and also served as an opportunity to recognize the Foundation’s 2023 Philanthropy Award recipients.

“Our award recipients this year are a group of strong supporters who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to healthcare excellence through their philanthropic efforts,” shares Steven McKoen, KC, Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. “These individuals and corporations, through their actions and advocacy, have made a meaningful impact on the Foundation and healthcare in their community.”

Graciously receiving awards were:
• Ryan and Emma Tones, Keith and Betty Beedie Leadership in Philanthropy Award
• Peter Xotta, Dr. Kenneth Hill Spirit of Philanthropy Award;
• KTL Transport Inc., Burnaby Hospital Foundation Award for Corporate Citizenship; and
• Dr. Wesley Jang, Burnaby Hospital Foundation Physician of the Year Award;

The incredible total raised by this year’s gala comes on the heels of several other major announcements, alluding to imminent advancements in the delivery of healthcare in the region. In September, the BC Provincial government announced the $1.7 billion second phase of Burnaby Hospital’s redevelopment project.

The Foundation also hints at another exciting announcement later this month.

“Donations are crucial at this time,” shares James. “With the addition of a new 12-storey acute care tower on our campus, the list of necessary equipment is quite extensive. Generous contributions from our community make it possible to purchase the state-of-the-art equipment that our staff need to continue providing exceptional medical care. The Foundation will be sharing the focus of our campaign in the coming weeks.”

Phase Two of the redevelopment brings upgrades to the Intensive Care Unit and Medical Imaging departments, as well as other important additions that include new in-patient oncology and cardiac telemetry units, 160 private rooms, and a regional cancer centre.

To learn more about the redevelopment of Burnaby Hospital and the Foundation’s campaign, visit https://www.bhfoundation.ca/brightfuture/

Browse through photos from our Under the Tuscan Stars Gala.