This year’s Le Bal Rouge invites guests to be transported to the azure waters and sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant landscapes of Greece and Italy, the gala will celebrate the rich history and timeless elegance of the region. Attendees are encouraged to channel their inner Adonis or Aphrodite, and to give in to the fantasy of the evening.

The MUHC Foundation’s annual gala Le Bal Rouge will pay tribute to Dr. Peter Metrakos, Senior Scientist and Program Leader of the Cancer Research Program at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC). The gala is raising funds for the MUHC Foundation’s Dream Big: End Cancer campaign, an incredible initiative that supports the MUHC’s extraordinary cancer experts who are dedicated to making breakthroughs in the fight against cancer.

Under Dr. Metrakos’ leadership, the MUHC’s Cancer Research Program has grown into the largest adult cancer research group in Quebec, boasting the MUHC’s top oncologists and cancer researchers. Together, they are actively exploring personalized, precision cancer treatments and early detection and monitoring tools that will transform the standard of cancer care, making once-deadly cancers treatable.

In one way or another, cancer touches every one of us. Whether our parents, grandparents, neighbors and friends, we all know someone who has had cancer. Le Bal Rouge will reflect our collective effort to end cancer as a deadly disease and highlight the power of the MUHC. Two outstanding members of our community are stepping up as leaders of this year’s gala, co-chairing the event and driving fundraising efforts forward. Rosa Trunzo, CIBC’s Senior Vice President and Region Head, Eastern Canada, and Kheng Ly, Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer of Brivia Group.

Rosa Trunzo is a community leader, change-maker, and banking expert with 35 years of experience. Like so many of us, Ms. Trunzo’s life has been forever altered by cancer. 24 years ago, she lost her brother to the deadly disease–he was only 36 years old. Today, her decision to co-chair Le Bal Rouge is a tribute to his perseverance.

“His courage remains my biggest source of inspiration,” says Ms. Trunzo. “It drives me to continuously strive for excellence, and I know that he would be thrilled to see me co-chairing this event, and supporting the experts who are working tirelessly to discover the cures of tomorrow.”

Kheng Ly is a visionary leader and seasoned entrepreneur in real estate investment and development with close to 25 years of experience. He founded Brivia Group in 2000, a major real estate development and investment company that boasts iconic and emblematic real estate developments in Montréal, Québec City, Toronto and Vancouver. Mr. Ly is a committed philanthropist who has made tremendous contributions to health care, education, and culture in Montreal.

“At Brivia Group, our goal is to form community living spaces, and a big part of that is ensuring the health of our community,” says Kheng Ly. “So, any support we offer is an extension of that project, but it’s also a way for us to recognize the years of efforts from millions of dedicated health care workers.”

Both Ms. Trunzo and Mr. Ly are active members of the MUHC Foundation’s Board of Directors, and are recognized leaders, change-makers, and respected members of our community.

This year’s gala takes place on May 31st, and Windsor Station will serve as the perfect backdrop for an evening of opulence and sophistication, drawing on the Mediterranean region’s vast olive groves, ancient ruins, and lush vineyards. The glitzy event will be an occasion for renowned Montreal business leaders to showcase their support for the cause while also enjoying an evening of Mediterranean fare and flair, right in the heart of Montreal.

The fabulous food and drink served at this year’s event will celebrate the rich culinary tastes of the region. Think Tuscan vineyards, Cretan olive groves, and vibrant Venetian markets.

All proceeds from Le Bal Rouge will support the MUHC Foundation’s $35 million Dream Big. End Cancer campaign, which supports the MUHC’s most innovative researchers, clinicians and physicians as they work together and make incredible strides in cancer care.

“Giving back to our community has always been my personal philosophy and the corporate value of my company, Brivia Group,” says Mr. Ly. “It’s an honour to support our local health care workers, and to be a part of the MUHC’s, and Quebec’s, success story.”

The MUHC’s cancer experts are at the forefront of their field, and the support of Le Bal Rouge will help them continue the MUHC’s reputation as a global leader in cancer research.

“With the advancements on the horizon, it’s possible that my brother’s story may have ended differently. By being a part of this year’s gala and leading fundraising efforts, I’m hoping to give that opportunity to another family,” expresses Ms. Trunzo.

If your business is interested in supporting this initiative by purchasing a corporate table, please visit www.lebalrouge.com. And anyone can support cancer research at the MUHC by donating to the MUHC Foundation’s Dream Big: End Cancer campaign, where we empower our experts to find the cures of tomorrow and provide compassionate patient care to everyone struggling with the disease. You can visit our website to find out more: www.muhcfoundation.com/works/end-cancer 

The MUHC Foundation is accredited by Imagine Canada for excellence in non-profit accountability, transparency and governance.