Hot Havana Nights Gala - A Huge Success!

Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation raised $315,000 at its 32nd annual gala, Hot Havana Nights on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Presented by Mike & Leanne Laurin, in support of the urgent need to expand cardiac care at Langley Hospital, 320 guests attended.

The gala featured a wine draw, silent and live auctions as well as a 50/50 raffle. The gala treated guests to a four-course gourmet Cuban meal, Juno nominated Latin band, Mazacote, a candy bar, as well as a Speakeasy featuring fun card games and a roulette wheel. 

Heather Scott, Executive Director of Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, says "The funds raised at the gala for Langley Memorial Hospital's cardiac care unit will expand the number of beds and provide advanced equipment to our highly specialized health care teams to help ensure the growing number of cardiac patients seen at Langley receive excellent care."

2021 Census Canada numbers show that with a population of just over 161,500, Langley (Township and City) is generally composed of an aging population. In fact, those residents aged 55 and older number 61,080; 37% of the population is over 65. Coronary heart disease remains among the top three diagnoses among Canadians aged 65 and older.

Last year alone, more than 750 patients who visited Langley Memorial's Emergency Department were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, which houses the cardiac care beds. 

According to Scott, "This advancement will also reduce ER congestion. And that is critical. What we know is that the longer a patient who presents cardiac challenges remains in the ER the higher their mortality rate - we want patients to recover, go back into the community to live healthy and happy lives."

This year, the gala was also an opportunity to celebrate the Foundation's generous donors, sponsors, caregivers, patients and volunteers. "I am immensely thankful to everyone who gave their gift of tie, treasure and talent," concluded Scott.

Last year's gala, themed Monet's Garden, saw guests raise $205,000 in support of youth, health and wellness at the hospital and in the community.