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The Mariners Hospital Bougainvillea Ball, held Saturday, Jan. 27 at Cheeca Lodge & Spa, raised a record $150,000 for the hospital. The money will be used to help defray the costs of eICU LifeGuard, which provides an extra level of care for the most critically ill patients at Mariners.
The gala evening opened with a welcome reception and silent auction. Afterward, the 415 guests partied into the night, dancing to the music of Heat Wave and vying for live-auction items that included coveted cruises, exotic vacation getaways and stunning jewelry.
In addition to funds from the silent and live auctions of more than 100 items, proceeds included money raised by two raffles. Meg Blair of Islamorada won a 13-foot Boston Whaler, motor and trailer, donated by Bill Gilbert of Caribee Boat Sales and Marina. Ms. Blair also won the raffle for a balloon basket of cheer.
“The evening was truly unforgettable,” said Betty Anne Schilling, who co-chaired the event with Jo McGregor. “Everybody had a wonderful time, and the best part was that we were able to raise a record amount of money for the hospital. The number of people in the community who donated auction and raffle items and underwrote many of the ball costs was overwhelming. I am so grateful for their support. I thank each and every one very, very much.”
Ball Committee members were Lauren Abrams, Mary Joan Brito, Phyllis Elden, Leslie Leopold, Carol Luse, Debi Malone and Sunne Rego. |