The 27th Annual Valentine’s Ball in support of the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence was a resounding success last night, raising an outstanding $804,000 net in support of compassionate, end-of-life care. Just over 400 guests, united by generosity and community spirit, gathered at the Pavillon sur le Lac at Château Vaudreuil.
Love Blooms Eternal
Under the theme Love Blooms Eternal, the evening was presided over by An Van Gerven, President of Pfizer Canada, serving as Honorary President. Pfizer Canada is a long-time partner of the Residence and has consistently supported its mission to ensure that patients and families facing life’s most vulnerable moments are surrounded by dignity, comfort, and compassion. Ms. Van Gerven’s leadership and engagement set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
A Night Rooted in Compassion and Connection
Guests were welcomed by an uplifting musical performance from Shaharah Sinclair, setting a festive and heartfelt tone for the evening. An elegant dinner followed, along with a moving testimony from Gavin Fernandez, Teresa Dellar’s late husband, joined by their sons, Nicholas and Jonathan. Together, they shared their touching story and reflected on how the Residence continued to support their family throughout their bereavement journey. The highly anticipated online auction featured more than 200 items, including an impressive collection of artworks generously donated by local and national artists.
In her address to guests, Executive Director Dale Weil reflected on the deeper meaning of the evening: “Tonight is a beautiful reflection of what happens when a community comes together with heart and purpose. To our donors, sponsors, volunteers, partners and friends, thank you. Your generosity ensures that patients and families who come to the Residence during life’s most vulnerable moments are surrounded by comfort, dignity and compassion. ‘Love Blooms Eternal’ is more than a theme, it is what we witness every day with our patients, and as care continues to embrace families long after their loved one has passed. We are profoundly grateful to all of you for making this possible.”
Community Leaders and Dedicated Supporters
The Ball was honoured by the presence of community and political leaders, as well as past Honorary Presidents who continue to stand alongside the Residence in its mission.
This year’s success was made possible thanks to the extraordinary generosity of its major sponsors, including Pfizer Canada, BFL Canada, Broccolini, Calko Group, Jacques Maurice Group – Scotia Wealth Management, Merck Canada, National Bank, RBC Capital Markets, Task and many others whose steadfast support sustains the Residence year after year. New and returning partners alike demonstrated that community commitment remains strong and growing.
About the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence
The Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence is an independent, non-profit organization that provides services free of charge to patients and their loved ones. The Residence relies on community support and fundraising activities to raise close to 5 million each year, which complements our government subsidy. With its 23 beds, the Residence is Canada’s largest free-standing palliative care facility and is recognized as a leader in its field.
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SOURCE: Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence
Information: Elizabeth Huart, 514 972-4289 (cell) or ehuart@tdpcr.ca