On Saturday evening, the highly anticipated 12th Annual Daffodil Ball took place at the Delta Grand Hotel.
The funds raised at this year's gala went towards the innovative and life-saving research that is being conducted by Dr. Torsten Nielsen who is working towards developing new, smarter diagnostic and treatment methods for Synovial Sarcoma – a rare and often fatal form of cancer that most commonly occurs in the limbs of young adults.
In attendance was 14 year old Kieren O'Neil and his family from Kamloops whose cancer story was shared. Kieren is just one of the people who has been positively impacted by Dr. Nielsens groundbreaking advancements in the world of Synovial Sarcoma. "The Okanagan can be proud in knowing that they are helping Dr. Nielsen and those with cancer to survive and thrive," Randene Wejr, the Southern Interior Director of the Canadian Cancer Society.
Photo Credit: KelownaNowDr. Nielsen , Kieren and part of the O'Neil Family
Prior to entering the ballroom, guests had the chance to mingle and indulge in delicious appetizers. Everyone was dressed elegantly from traditional black tuxedos to jewelled gowns, the event gave some community members the opportunity for a unique and fun evening out.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
Photo Credit: KelownaNowCo Chair Shannon Gall and her husband
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
As one of Kelowna's signature fundraisers the Daffodil Ball welcomed 200 guests this year. To bring more of a fun and exciting angle to the event this year the organizers brought in 20 Celebrity Waiters, who did their "unprofessional best" to get tips in the form of "funny money" to go towards the cause.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
Photo Credit: KelownaNowFunny Money
The waiters made quite the entrance with sparklers in hand and crazy dance moves that set the mood for the evening. The waiters had the freedom to do whatever they wanted to raise more money. From replacing metal cutlery with plastic and even challenging other waiters to lip-sync battles, they gave it all they could for this incredible cause.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
Another way attendees could donate was by participating in the live auction that was emceed by "The Auctionista" herself, Linda Leja, whose performance was laughter-fueled and energetic. Throughout the evening, guests could also participate in fundraising initiatives like the "Heads or Tails sale" where tickets could be bought to win a staycation at Kelowna's finest resorts
Photo Credit: KelownaNowThe Auctionista, Linda Leja, on the right.
Photo credit: KelownaNowSelling the "Heads of tails" Tickets
The event was a huge success raising $158,000 to go towards cancer research. Kieren O'Neil ended the evening by saying grace and personally shaking hands and thanking the donors. It is certain that all in attendance had a wonderful time for a wonderful cause.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
For more photos of this event, click here!
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