Approximately 600 members of the ever-growing family of supporters, volunteers and friends of Hoag Hospital gathered in the Pacific Ballroom at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort to celebrate Hoag’s 44th Annual Christmas Carol Ball on Saturday night.
Approximately $820,000 was raised to support the work of the physicians and nurses at Hoag Hospital Newport Beach, Hoag Hospital Irvine and all seven Hoag Health Centers located throughout Orange County.
“The Christmas Carol Ball was the 552 Club’s first event in 1966 and has played an important part in the history of Hoag,” said Dr. Richard Afable, Hoag president and CEO, in his opening remarks. “Events like this raise funds which in turn allow Hoag, a community hospital, to make amazing strides in healthcare services.”
For Nora Jorgensen Johnson, who, for the seventh year in a row gave the evening’s invocation, this was her 43rd ball! She expressed gratitude for the donors, doctors, nurses and volunteers, especially for her friend, Dr. Applegate, who delivered three of her grandchildren at Hoag.
“I am so grateful for the volunteers, especially the new ones,” she said. “Volunteering is the most wonderful thing you can do for your fellow human beings.”
In attendance were: Stephen Jones, chairman of the hospital’s Board of Directors; Flynn Andrizzi, president of the Hoag Hospital Foundation; Karen Linden, chair of the Hoag Hospital Foundation; and Ilona Martin, president of the 552 Club. Also Honorary Chairs Sandi and Ron Simon; Dr. Fariborz Maseeh of The Massiah Foundation; Mr. Edward Fedishon; and Committee Co-Chairs Vahé and Dr. Lisa Karamardian and Tyler and Pamela Terry.
Hosted by the Hoag Foundation 552 Club and the Christmas Carol Ball Committee, the ball has attracted and raised more than $7 million since 1966.
