2024 Arthritis Soirée Sees Huge Success to Drive Research Forward
The ARThritis Soirée, Arthritis Research Canada’s signature fundraising event, raised $413,000 in support of life-changing arthritis research as the organization marked 25 years of finding answers for millions living with arthritis.
The elegant cocktail event took place at its new location, the Paradox Hotel Vancouver, on May 23 and hosted business and community leaders, healthcare professionals, patients, and individuals – who gathered to show incredible support for vital arthritis research.
There are over 100 types of arthritis affecting more than six million Canadians of all ages, including 800,000 British Columbians. Arthritis is the #1 cause of work disability and costs the Canadian economy an estimated $33 billion per year in treatment costs and lost productivity.
Despite these facts, and the number of Canadians affected, arthritis research receives only two per cent of the available research dollars in Canada. For this reason, the ARThritis Soirée has become a significant event in raising awareness and funds for arthritis research – shining the spotlight on this invisible and often misunderstood disease.
“An arthritis diagnosis can drastically impact many aspects of a person’s life – from work and school to how people socialize and complete basic, daily tasks,” said Dr. Diane Lacaille, Arthritis Research Canada’s Scientific Director. “Our scientists are transforming the lives of people of all ages impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement. We are developing tools and resources to change lives today thanks to the generous support of donors and sponsors.”
The Soirée is a success year-over-year thanks to the collective and generous efforts of sponsors, guests, donors, artists, volunteers, and dynamic co-hosts – Coleen Christie of Global BC and ‘Man About Town’ Fred Lee.
Arthritis Research Canada is grateful that, for the third year in a row, the Royal Bank of Canada supported the ARThritis Soirée as its Presenting Sponsor. “RBC is pleased to support Arthritis Research Canada and the important work they do to improve the lives of millions of Canadians,” said Martin Thibodeau, Regional President British Columbia, RBC. “At RBC, our purpose is to help clients thrive and communities prosper and supporting arthritis research is just one of the many ways we are creating positive social impact towards accomplishing this goal.”
Arthritis Research Canada’s scientists are preventing the devastating complications of arthritis like heart attacks, strokes and blood clots. They are improving mental health and creating tools to help people keep working, be physically active, make decisions about vaccines, safely start families, get high-quality sleep, and so much more.
