Saturday, June 8th, 2019 at Matilda Hall
The party began with an energetic Yee Haw from MC Rachelle Elie and just got better as the night went on. The sell-out crowd of 250 guests were on board for fun, laughter, great food, lively auctions and lots of dancing.
WDMH CEO Cholly Boland got things started by welcoming everyone and thanking them for coming: “I am proud to be part of the WDMH team that cares for our local communities every day. And I am also proud to be part of the WDMH Foundation team. We are honoured to work with you to raise much- needed funds for the hospital. And that is what tonight is all about. We want to help WDMH continue to provide the very best care close to home. And we couldn’t do it without you.”
Later in the evening, Honorary Chairs Lois and Dale Keyes echoed these thoughts, noting they were humbled to be chosen for this special role. “Each time you think about going to the hospital, there is no question about where to go – it is always Winchester. I would urge each and every one to support our hospital as best you can. It could be financially or even a positive comment and attitude. We can all work to keep it the great hospital it is today.”
The evening included a delicious buffet by AJ’s Catering. Auctioneer Brandon Scheepers led an ‘eat first table’ auction to get things going. Then he kicked off the live auction by announcing a $1000 anonymous donation and encouraging the crowd to match it. They did – plus even more! After a bit more comedy from Rachelle and the raffle and prize draws, Rory Gardiner and his band took to the stage for some great country music with lots of other hits mixed in. The dance floor was full.
“Thank you for joining us in supporting compassionate, excellent care at WDMH. Your presence here means more than you know,” summed up Kristen Casselman, Managing Director of the WDMH Foundation. “My sincerest thanks to everyone involved in tonight’s event. People say money makes the world go round. In our communities', it's hard work, compassion, respect, love and friendship that makes it spin. Thank you for that!”
The final tally is still being calculated. Funds raised will support the Foundation’s Family Care Fund, ‘supporting care for families just like yours’.