Miss Chinese Vancouver Pageant Gala Dinner raises $460,000 for life-saving radiation equipment

The 25^th annual Miss Chinese Vancouver Pageant Gala Dinner has raised an inspiring $460,000 benefitting the BC Cancer Foundation to bring surface-guided radiation equipment to BC Cancer – Vancouver.

Fueled by more than 700 generous guests at the Vancouver Convention Centre, funds raised will support BC Cancer patients who require precision radiation. Lions Clubs International was recognized for its commitment to a generous $100,000 USD match.

“We are thrilled to know surface-guided radiation equipment is on its way, which will allow clinicians to deliver more targeted treatment, improve patient comfort and reduce the time it takes for patients to undergo treatment,” said Dr. Cheryl Duzenli, medical physics leader, BC Cancer.

This state-of-the-art equipment will have a significantly positive effect for patients, decreasing treatment set-up time, reducing risk of missing the target and radiation of healthy tissue. It is particularly beneficial for pediatric and breast cancer patients.

“We are grateful to our guests who generously donated to help bring innovative radiation equipment to BC Cancer, giving greater hope to the more than 80,000 British Columbians facing cancer,” said Sarah Roth, president and CEO, BC Cancer Foundation.”

While guests enjoyed an elegant dinner, Pancy Lau, a renowned pop singer originally form Hong Kong captivated the audience with her performance. The crowd was moved when BC Cancer patient and Vancouver resident, Carmen Hou, took the stage to share her story.

Carmen, now 35-years-old, has been facing Stage IV breast cancer for the past three years, as a young mother to four-year-old daughter, Evelyn. “Without the treatment and care I’ve received at BC Cancer, which donors make possible, I would not be standing here before you,” said Carmen.

Carmen has been gifted more time with her family because of the life-saving treatments she’s received at BC Cancer, including precision radiation.

Auctioneer Fred Lee excited the crowd with his presentation of each live auction item, as a special Dom Pérignon dinner featuring Vancouver firefighter and chef, Michael Varga, sold for $25,000.

With thanks to the leadership and support of the 2019 Gala Dinner Committee and its co-chairs Glynnis Chan, May Ho and Shella Keung, proceeds will enable BC Cancer clinicians to provide their patients with state-of-the-art radiation treatment.

To learn more and to support surface-guided radiation equipment, read more about our partnership with Fairchild Media Group.

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