Gala 2014 Review, Barbara Woodworth

Gala 2014

Another year. Another success. On Saturday night, October 25, 2014 the 12th annual “Working Toward a Day Without Pain” Gala was held at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo. Well attended by local and out-of-town guests, attendees joined together to share in both the fun and efforts to raise funds to support ongoing research to advance the treatment of Chiari malformation, syringomyelia, neuropathic pain, spinal cord injury and related conditions.

Far from disappointed, after listening to keynote speaker Dr. Marcus Stoodley of Australia - perhaps the world’s most preeminent researcher in the fields of Chiari and syringomyelia - the audience was thrilled to learn about definitive advancements in determining the causes and treatment of these conditions. The impact of Dr. Stoodley’s most current research was praised by Column of Hope’s medical and scientific advisor, Dr. Lee Guterman, who additionally mentioned that 40 Buffalo-area physicians attended Dr. Stoodley’s morning seminar at Mercy Hospital. Clearly, the newest research may well have the potential to change medical science and impact the treatment of patients in the not-too-distant future.

Another highlight of the evening, led by Barbara and Mark Kane and their daughter, Laura Kane-Punyon, were remarks by Laura’s long-time friend Jessica Gameron. Jessica, like Laura, underwent many surgical procedures over the years. Touched by Jessica’s reflections of her years dealing with pain and suffering, the audience applauded enthusiastically when she mentioned her recent engagement and graduation from Rutger’s with her masters’ degree.

Remarks by Mark and Laura began and concluded the event, which included an extensive basket raffle, a silent auction and live auction presided over by well-known auctioneer, Cash Cunningham. The evening also included a fantastic – and delicious – dinner, as well as live music performed by the Column of Hope family band, led by Pat Kane, throughout the evening.

Yes, October 25, 2014 ended another year, another Gala, and another Column of Hope success with appreciation and news that the 13th annual “Working Toward a Day Without Pain” Gala will be held on October 10, 2015. Save the date!

Photos of the event can be viewed at http://everlastingkeepsakes.smugmug.com/Column-Of-Hope-Gala-2014/n-2zDmZ/i-WQdBkvC.