Cardiac Gala Raises $644,000 to Bring Hearts Closer to Home
February 3, 2025
Cardiac Gala Raises $644,000 to Bring Hearts Closer to Home
Lethbridge, AB – February 3, 2025 – The Cardiac Sciences Advisory Cabinet, in partnership with the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, is thrilled to announce that the Bringing Hearts Home Cardiac Gala, held on Saturday, February 1, has raised an astounding $644,000—exceeding all expectations.
"A heartfelt thank you to Southern Alberta! We deeply appreciate everyone who volunteered, sponsored, attended, and donated to make this gala such an incredible success," said Crystal Elliott, Chief Executive Officer of the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.
The evening featured powerful personal stories from hockey legend Lanny McDonald and local icon Tony Deys, who shared their near-death experiences with cardiac issues. Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen delivered a supportive message as co-chair of the Cardiac Sciences Advisory Cabinet. And to hammer home the evening just before some truly outstanding bidding in the auction, Dr. Sayeh Zielke, Cardiologist and Chair of the Cardiac Sciences Advisory Cabinet, delivered a compelling message highlighting that "Southern Albertans are 26% more likely to die from cardiac issues than those in the rest of the province. This is not acceptable. Southern Alberta, you deserve better!" said Dr. Zielke.
Funds raised from the gala will support the Bringing Hearts Home Campaign, a $30 million dollar, 30-month fundraising campaign to establish a Cardiac Sciences Centre of Excellence, bringing a cardiac catheterization lab right here to Lethbridge. You are helping to bring hearts closer to home!
The incredible success of the Cardiac gala event was driven largely by a volunteer committee chaired by Lethbridge cardiac nurse practitioner Jaime Cox. "We have a vision and are continuing to create a movement. It is truly inspiring to see people commit to this cause with their efforts and their pocketbooks," added Dr. Zielke.
Special thanks to Dunlop Ford, Grandview Cattle, Kasko Cattle Co., Cox Financial Group, Mikado Electric, and DA Electric for their unwavering support.
To everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening—thank you for being part of this mission to transform cardiac care in Southern Alberta!
Media Inquiries:
Dr. Sayeh Zielke
Cardiologist & Chair, Cardiac Sciences Advisory Cabinet
(587) 425-3246 | info@chinookcardiology.com
About the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation:
The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation is the leading philanthropic partner for Chinook Regional Hospital and surrounding healthcare facilities. With the support of generous donors, we drive innovation, fund state-of-the-art equipment, and sustain essential programs that enhance patient care across Southern Alberta.
