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Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation raises $210,000 in one night

Money from 10th annual Promise Ball fundraiser goes directly to research

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation raised $210,000 in one night in Victoria last weekend.

This was JDRF’s 10th annual Promise Ball fundraiser, named the Diamond Decade Gala.

“We are the world’s largest non-government funder of Type 1 diabetes research,” said Jason Parkhill, JDRF manager of fundraising and development in Victoria.

JDRF has branches around the world and is known for funding research towards funding a cure, treatment and prevention for Type 1 diabetes.

The gala at the Delta Hotel was over capacity with 215 people in attendance. The event featured a four-course dinner, a dance, silent and live auctions and an entertainer.

“We’re getting to be quite a ‘go-to’ event,” said Parkhill. “I think people can see the relevancy of what they are able to do with their financial support and the incredible advances that JDRF is making toward finding a cure.”

In fact, Parkhill said a cure might not be far off.

“There are treatments that are in clinical trials right now. Some of the world’s leading research is happening here in B.C.”

Every year at the gala, a community service award is given to an individual for exemplary community service. This year, the Living and Giving award was given to Michael and Paddy Graetz.

“Both of them have been involved on the committee organizing this event for all 10 years,” said Parkhill.

 

editor@vicnews.com