Funds raised will unmask a new era of care for BC’s kids with genetic conditions

Crystal Ball

Last night, over 380 guests at BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 33rd Annual Crystal Ball Gala, presented by Nicola Wealth, raised over $3.8 million and counting, to equip the hospital with its first suite of Next Generation Technologies. These innovative tools will enable experts at BC Children’s to peer into a child’s entire genetic makeup all at once, shining a light on the causes of unexplained conditions that have so long remained in the dark.

“The level of support we received tonight was truly inspiring and shows what we can accomplish for kids and families when we all come together,” said Teri Nicholas, president and CEO, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. “By supporting Next Generation Technologies, we help ensure more kids can get the support and possible treatment they may need to help them cope with their condition, and in the process, give hope to more families.”

“The generosity from the community is what allows us to continue to make great strides in our quest to elevate child health, and tonight, we’ve taken a huge leap forward.”

—Teri Nicholas, President and CEO, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation

Each year, thousands of kids with unexplained genetic conditions visit BC Children’s Hospital. Many experience debilitating symptoms that affect their daily lives, but they have no answers for what’s causing them. These children embark on exhausting journeys with their families that involve countless specialists and painful tests. But after months and sometimes even years of searching, they are often still left in the dark.

Next Generation Technologies can help families receive diagnoses faster than ever before and reduce the number of painful and invasive tests a child experiences. Discovering the underlying causes of genetic conditions can also inform personalized treatments, which may even lead to cures. In cases where there are no proven treatments, a diagnosis provides a family with a clearer picture of what their future holds.

“I feel extremely honoured to be amongst leaders in the community tonight, who came together once again to support the Crystal Ball and help us make incredible advances in caring for the kids of BC,” said Jennifer Johnston, Chair, Crystal Ball committee. “Tonight’s success would not be possible without the support of many, including this year’s gala committee, sponsors and volunteers. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our guests, helping us raise funds that will help illuminate the future for thousands of families in the province.”

This year also marks the final year for the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver as the hosting venue for the Crystal Ball. The hotel has been an incredible partner for the past 32 years in helping transform care for children.

This year’s event embraced the elegance of the Venetian era, ushering guests into a spectacular dining and entertainment experience while supporting BC Children’s Hospital. The evening featured an exclusive menu with Italian flare designed by Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver’s Executive Chef Ben Kilford and his team.

Master of Ceremonies Chris Gailus of Global BC and returning auctioneer Fred Lee charmed the guests and infused the room with remarkable energy. The evening’s energy peaked when three significant donations of half a million each were announced at the start of the Gifts to Help Kids Shine segment of the evening.

Since its inception, Crystal Ball has raised over $38 million for BC Children’s Hospital