The Victoria Hospitals Foundation's 33rd annual Visions Gala raised a record $3.65 million on Nov. 23 to support new surgical and oncology technology at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals.
Held at the Fairmont Empress, the event brought together more than 640 guests, including donors, caregivers and business leaders. Funds from the gala support the foundation's $21-million It's Time for Surgical Evolution campaign, which aims to expand minimally invasive care and introduce new robotic and precision oncology tools.
The campaign includes adding a second da Vinci surgical robot, acquiring the Island's first neurosurgery robot and purchasing 60 precision oncology instruments. Guests at the gala were able to view and interact with the robotic systems before they are installed at Victoria General Hospital.
The evening also featured patient stories from prostate cancer patient Gerald Kersten and local nurse Davita Miles, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Their experiences highlighted the impact of recent technological advances and the role of philanthropy in supporting care on Vancouver Island.
Surgeons Daniel Warren and Heather Emmerton-Coughlin told attendees that innovations in surgical systems are improving outcomes for patients across the region.
The gala's pledge drive was the most successful in its history, boosted by a $1-million matching donation from philanthropist Craig Mearns and a $500,000 contribution from Andrew Sheret Limited.
The event was organized by the 2025 Visions Steering Committee and supported by more than 100 volunteers. To learn more about the campaign or to donate, visit victoriahf.ca/ItsTime.