Glitter in Macau 2016 in Support of SickKids Foundation

On Saturday, March 5th, 2016 the third annual Glitter in Macau in support of SickKids Foundation took place at the beautiful Arcadian Court, which is nestled on the 8th floor of the Hudson’s Bay in downtown Toronto.

This year event,  is the third consecutive year presented by BMO Wealth Management, and the third year the Chinese-Canadian community (including the Chinese Cabinet) has partnered up with SickKids Foundation to host the fundraiser, which attracted more than 350 attendees.

(scroll to the bottom for full gallery)

Co-Chairs Justin Poy and Frank Luk began the night by announcing that they have raised 2.1 million dollars so far for the SickKids Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and that a $400,000 was needed to “close the door” on this year’s goal. The foundation later announced that more than $480,000 was raised during  BMO Wealth Management presents Glitter in Macau 2016, which adds to a total of $2.5 million for the NICU to date. The funds raised this year will go towards the hospital’s needs in terms of new framework, new equipment, rolling out and implementing a patient care program in the SickKids Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Most importantly, adding a new Neonatal MRI unit for the hospital, which is really great and exciting news for SickKids.

Such great cause attracted people who are passionate and more than willing to help raise funds. Half way through the evening guests made donations, large and small, because SickKids has touched all of us one way or another, and the well-being of the kids and their future matters to every single one of us.

Honorary Chair, Irwin Li, has a special and heartfelt connection to SickKids. After his son received surgery at the hospital, he wholeheartedly committed to giving back.

Honourary Chair, Irwin Li

“I am honoured to have this opportunity in return for all the hospital has done for my family,” said Li. Li received help from the SickKids when his son was diagnosed with an illness. “SickKids helped us when we needed it the most, providing us with thoughtful, compassionate care,” he added. “At Glitter in Macau, I will be supporting the hospital among other families and patients who view SickKids as a place that provides world-class care.” Li showed us how the hospital is doing a stellar job and that sometimes a simple thank you isn’t good enough. The need to give back was greater in this case. A truly touching moment.

Memorable moments during the event include seeing SickKids patients perform throughout the evening. Seventeen-year-old Anson Hui has been travelling with renowned classical musicians throughout North America and Europe. Anson was diagnosed with a genetic condition at the age of two and has since visited SickKids routinely for help. Tumours were found in his liver recently, and he will be placed on the list for transplant this year.

Onetime patient and violinist, Jeremy Zung, who will be playing alongside three accomplished musicians in a string quartet, was moved and motivated to give back following his treatment at SickKids. Jeremy took on a role as a research student and made a transition to a medical student in the Emergency Department.

From the casino themed blackjack tables to losing yourself in the culinary delights of some of Toronto’s top chefs, and also partaking in luxury shopping from retailers like Mulberry and Ritchies, it was an eventful and historic night by the Chinese-Canadian community. Glitter in Macau 2016 was truly an evening to remember.

Alan Kwong

Frank Luk

Doris Chan, member of the Chinese Cabinet

Ted Gerrard, President and CEO of SickKids Foundation

Doris Chan, member of the Chinese Cabinet

The Chinese Cabinet members

(photos by Alexis)