The 5th annual ARThritis Soirée was a record-breaking evening for Arthritis Research Canada. The Roof at the Hotel Vancouver was awash in purple as the signature cocktail event unfolded and an incredible $390,000 was raised to advance leading edge arthritis research. Thanks to the collective and generous efforts of sponsors, guests, donors, a stellar volunteer team coupled with dynamic hosts Fred Lee and Robin Gill – the evening was a resounding success!

The ARThritis Soirée brings together those who share a passion and appreciation of art and a desire to support arthritis research. With this year’s theme of music, the highlight of the night was a performance by world-renowned violinist Jenny Bae who took the stage along with members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Bae spoke to guests about her own family’s experience with arthritis and recognized the importance of arthritis research in finding answers. Jenny said, “Supporting a cause that touches so many lives in Canada and around the world gives me great satisfaction”.

In addition to a great performance by Jenny Bae – guests enjoyed champagne donated by ToursByLocals and BC wines from LaStella and Le Vieux Pin wineries along with fabulous hors d’oeuvres including the legendary Joe Fortes oyster bar and Northern Divine Caviar.

Through video, Vianne Bacchus shared her personal story of being diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the young age of 28 years old. The video served as a reminder that arthritis in its more than 100 forms, can affect any one at any age. Vianne’s story reinforced why support for arthritis research is so necessary. Click here to view the video.

Arthritis Research Canada is extremely thankful to ARThritis Soirée Chair Naz Panahi who led the team that planned and organized the event.  Panahi stated, “I am truly grateful to each of the generous sponsors, donors and guests who contributed in making the 2017 ARThritis Soirée such a success. With so many great causes needing our support, it was incredibly heartwarming to see the support and commitment to arthritis research. Arthritis affects more than 5.2 million Canadians, yet receives only 3% of available research dollars in Canada. Elevating the level of awareness about arthritis is needed to substantially increase the funding to support research”.

These remarks were echoed by Dr. John Esdaile, Scientific Director who gave guests several examples of how donor dollars are supporting breakthroughs in arthritis research in the areas of arthritis prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and quality of life issues. Arthritis Research Canada needs champions, Dr. Esdaile told guests, “we need you to invest in arthritis research. With one in six Canadians currently affected by arthritis the need for arthritis research has never been greater”.

It is clear from the results of the evening fundraising efforts, the team of arthritis research champions is growing.

To view the 2017 ARThritis Soirée photo gallery, please visit https://arthritissoiree.ca/2017-soiree

Special thank you to the team at Sombilon Studios for capturing the evening in photos.