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20th Annual Black & White Gala Raises Record Breaking Amount for Local Health Care

28/10/2025

The Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation is thrilled to announce that this year’s 20th Annual Black & White Gala: Magic & Masquerade, held October 18th at the Normandy Officers’ Mess in Garrison Petawawa, was a resounding success — raising a record-breaking $418,000 in support of the Pembroke Regional Hospital’s highest priority equipment needs.
 
Event Chair Dr. Christy Natsis shared her gratitude, saying, “What an incredible night of celebration, connection, and generosity. Our community came together once again — in dazzling masks and with open hearts — to make a real difference in local health care. Thank you to everyone who supported this year’s Gala and helped us reach a new fundraising record!”
 
Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with fine dining catered by Ullrich’s and 7th Heaven Sweets, stunning décor by Parvati & Athena Events, captivating live entertainment, and a spirited live auction — all in celebration of two decades of philanthropy, community, and care.
 
“This incredible achievement marks a milestone in our Gala’s 20-year history,” said Roger Martin, Executive Director of the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation. “We are beyond grateful for the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, and attendees whose generosity made this record-breaking total possible. Together, we’ve now raised over $3.4 million through this beloved community tradition — all dedicated to enhancing quality local health care.”
 
The Foundation extended a special thank you to this year’s $20,000 Gift of Legacy sponsors — Frank Carroll Financial, Ray and Barb Pilon of Canadian Tire Pembroke, and Dr. Christy Natsis, Dr. Bruce Harle, Dr. Raymond Lam and Dr. Jeremiah Suralvo — whose leadership and generosity helped make the event’s success possible.
 
Mr. Martin presented the $20,000 Gift of Legacy sponsors with a commemorative award, followed by the $10,000 Gift of Humanity sponsors; Parvati & Athena Events, The Murphy Family, Bergeron Clifford LLP, Norm & Mary Jane Carroll, Wally and Cathy MacDonell, Marion and Willie Ullrich, Carole Nevills and James Hooper and The Pembroke Radiologist Group. A special award of recognition was also presented to PRH Foundation Board Chair Lisa Edmonds, for her decades of sponsorship, volunteerism and support of the Black & White Gala and the PRH Foundation as a whole.
 
“We are deeply appreciative of every attendee, volunteer, sponsor, and donor who helped make the 20th Anniversary Black & White Gala such a memorable and impactful night,” said Ms. Edmonds said. “This event truly showcases the spirit of our community — one that believes in giving back and investing in local health care excellence.”
 
As part of the evening’s program, PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann reflected on 20 years of hospital improvements and technological advancements, all made possible through community fundraising and the incredible generosity of Renfrew County residents, businesses and organizations. She noted that while each fundraising goal represented an immense challenge, they were met with enthusiasm, drive and the common desire to improve local healthcare for all who need it.
 
“Thanks to the vision, commitment and support of our community we have diagnostic modalities like CT and MRI, we have state-of-the-art operating rooms and renovated birthing suites, we have a satellite dialysis unit and we have Towers B and D which couldn’t have existed without our community’s financial backing. In order to keep forging ahead in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, we must ensure that our infrastructure and technology is up to date – the possibilities are endless.”
 
The PRH Foundation would also like to thank everyone who participated in the online auction, featuring more than 100 unique items, which contributed significantly to this year’s record total.
 
As the curtain closes on this year’s Magic & Masquerade Gala, the Foundation looks ahead with immense gratitude — and excitement for what the next 20 years of generosity will bring.
 
For more information on upcoming events or to learn how you can support the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation, visit www.prhfoundation.com or follow the Foundation on social media.
 
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Roger Martin, Executive Director
Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation
roger.martin@prh.email
(613) 732-2811, extension 6223
 
Connect with us on Social Media
Facebook: @PembrokeRegionalHospitalFoundation
Instagram: @prh.foundation
LinkedIn: /prhfoundation
Youtube: Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation

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