UF Health Jacksonville recently hosted its 17th annual A Night for Heroes Gala on February 3, 2024, to honor the staff and first responders who have shown extraordinary dedication and heroism. The event, held at the Hyatt Regence Jacksonville Riverfront, served as a platform to raise funds for state-of-the-art equipment that will further enhance the community’s access to high-quality care and underscore the importance of a Level I trauma center.
The gala, which was attended by over 600 guests, featured various activities including a reception, silent and live auctions, dinner, and a program. The highlight of the event was the successful raise of over $429,000, marking it the highest grossing year in the history of A Night for Heroes.
One of the most poignant moments of the gala was the honoring of patient Harvey Doliner, whose life was forever changed after a traumatic accident. Doliner pledged $10,000 as a gesture of gratitude for the exceptional care he received from the dedicated healthcare professionals at UF Health Jacksonville.
During the event, a video highlighting the critical equipment donors were supporting was presented, followed by a live appeal led by U.S. Representative Aaron Bean. The goal of raising $75,000 to purchase an Armeo Spring Pro, a robotic arm used in rehab clinics, was achieved in under five minutes, thanks to the generosity of attendees.
The gala also took the time to recognize the staff and first responders involved in Doliner’s care, some of whom include medical professionals, nurses, helicopter pilots, and emergency medical technicians. Their unwavering commitment and expertise played a pivotal role in Doliner’s ongoing recovery and rehabilitation.
The annual A Night for Heroes Gala was initiated in 2008 by a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting the men and women at UF Health TraumaOne. Over the years, the Heroes Council has grown into a dynamic and committed group of volunteers focused on raising awareness and support for UF Health Jacksonville.
Since its inception, A Night for Heroes has raised more than $3 million to support life-saving equipment and care at UF Health Jacksonville. The event has not only served as a platform to honor healthcare heroes, but also as a means to rally support from the community for the organization’s continued success in providing critical care to those in need.
In sum, the 17th annual A Night for Heroes Gala was an inspiring event that not only honored the heroes among us, but also highlighted the profound impact of community support on healthcare initiatives. The event’s success is a testament to the unwavering dedication of those involved in providing exceptional care and the incredible generosity of the community.
Read More Health News
