The ARThritis Soirée, Arthritis Research Canada’s signature fundraising event, raised $413,000 in support of life-changing arthritis research as the organization marked 25 years of finding answers for millions living with arthritis.
The elegant cocktail event occurred at the Paradox Hotel Vancouver on May 23. It hosted business and community leaders, healthcare professionals, philanthropists, people with arthritis, and individuals who gathered to show incredible support for vital arthritis research.
Facts on Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis affecting more than six million Canadians of all ages, including 800,000 British Columbians. It is the #1 cause of work disability and costs the Canadian economy an estimated $33 billion per year in treatment costs and lost productivity.
Despite these facts and the number of Canadians affected, research receives only two percent of the available research dollars in Canada. For this reason, the ARThritis Soirée has become a significant event in raising awareness and funds for arthritis research, shining the spotlight on this invisible and often misunderstood disease.
“An arthritis diagnosis can drastically affect many aspects of a person’s life – from work and school to how people socialize and complete basic, daily tasks,” said Dr. Diane Lacaille, Arthritis Research Canada’s Scientific Director. “Our scientists are transforming the lives of people of all ages impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement. We are developing tools and resources to change lives today thanks to the generous support of donors and sponsors.”
The Soirée’s success year-over-year is a testament to the collective and generous efforts of sponsors, guests, donors, artists, volunteers, and dynamic co-hosts – Coleen Christie of Global BC and ‘Man About Town’ Fred Lee. It’s this spirit of unity and shared purpose that makes the event truly special.
Steadfast Support of Sponsors
The organization is deeply grateful that, for the third year in a row, the Royal Bank of Canada has been a steadfast supporter of the ARThritis Soirée as its Presenting Sponsor. “RBC is pleased to support Arthritis Research Canada and the important work they do to improve the lives of millions of Canadians,” said Martin Thibodeau, Regional President British Columbia, RBC. “At RBC, our purpose is to help clients thrive and communities prosper and supporting arthritis research is just one of the many ways we are creating positive social impact towards accomplishing this goal.”
The organization’s scientists are preventing devastating complications of arthritis, such as heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. They are also improving mental health and creating tools to help people keep working, be physically active, make vaccine decisions, safely start families, get high-quality sleep, and so much more.
To learn more about Arthritis Research Canada’s current research projects and how you can contribute to our cause, please click here.
Event Photography by Sombilon Studios.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].
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