April 01, 2002
Jewel Of The Nile - Genesis Foundation Hosts 2002 Gala
A touch of Hollywood will light up the night at the 13th Annual Genesis Health Services Foundation Gala on Friday, April 12, at the Outing Club in Davenport. An Elizabeth Taylor impersonator, rare gemstones and more than a hundred dazzling live and silent auction items are some of the exciting new changes at this year's event.
Several hundred Genesis supporters attend the Gala to have fun but at the same time, help the Genesis Health Services Foundation to develop and grant charitable support to meet the community's health-related needs. "During the past decade, Gala proceeds have enhanced the health and well-being of our entire community," says Andy Butler, 2002 Gala Chairperson. "The purchase of equipment and the renovation of facilities made possible through Gala contributions have meant improved patient care and satisfaction." Guests will hear testimonials from patients whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity and from members of the medical staff who use the equipment on a daily basis.
This year, Gala proceeds continue to serve dual purposes. A portion of the net proceeds from the night's events will be used to purchase six state-of-the-art dialysis machines. More than 200 patients are seen in the Edward A. Motto, M.D. Renal Dialysis Center each year. Each patient requires four to six hours of treatment, three times a week. The new machines will provide patients with advanced therapy, minimal downtime and more flexibility in treatment options.
The remaining funds will be used to expand the Gala Nursing Scholarship and Loan Program. Health care is experiencing the highest nursing vacancy rates ever recorded. While Genesis' nursing vacancy rate is lower than the national average, the need for high quality nurses is a major concern. To encourage individuals to seek a baccalaureate degree in nursing, the Genesis Health Services Foundation has established the Gala Nursing Scholarship. In its first year, proceeds from the 2001 Gala have enabled this unique program to provide up to $5,000 in financial assistance to 12 students entering a baccalaureate nursing degree program in the region.
"To keep state-of-the-art technology and compassionate and quality health care providers coming to Genesis, we have to remain on top of the health care industry," Butler adds. "The Foundation has been very successful over the years but individuals, foundations and corporations must continue their strong support in order to help the hospital remain the best in the region."
Anyone interested in making a donation to this cause may call the Genesis Health Services Foundation office at 563-421-6865.
