Baptist Health Foundation Hosts an Evening of Gratitude Benefiting Bethesda Hospital
PALM BEACH, FL – March 10, 2025 – Over 200 guests attended the Evening of Gratitude benefiting Bethesda Hospital, part of Baptist Health, which was held on Friday, February 21, 2025 at the OPAL Grand Resort & Spa in Delray Beach. Presented by Team Health and hosted by Baptist Health Foundation, the event honored members of its Giving Society and other donors to Bethesda Hospital.
The Bethesda Hospital Evening of Gratitude raised over $450,000 towards the development of robotics for urologic care and other surgeries; research trials to improve treatments for prostate, kidney and bladder cancers; and advanced training for students, residents and researchers. The event featured a cocktail hour, seated dinner and live entertainment by JK Productions. Speakers included Barbara Lucas, honorary chair and Bethesda Hospital board member; Alex Villoch, Baptist Health Foundation CEO; Joe Natoli, Baptist Health executive vice president and chief administrative officer; Jared Smith, Bethesda Hospital CEO and Dr. Raymond Leveillee, director of the Bethesda Hospital Center for Advanced Robotics and Urologic Care. The program also featured a personal testimony by Bethesda Hospital patient Maria Echelard.
“Since moving here full time three years ago, we have made Bethesda Hospital our philanthropic priority,” said Barbara Lucas. “During this time, we have been first-hand recipients to the transformative impact Baptist Health is having on South Florida. We know many of you have also prioritized your giving and tonight is no exception.”
Added Alex Villoch, “The Palm Beach community is making extraordinary impact with their generosity, and we are truly grateful for your commitment and support.”
The event’s Presenting sponsor was Team Health. Gold sponsors included Pamela & Mike McCarthy and Brenda Medore. Silver sponsors included Black Diamond General Contracting, El Car Wash, Envision Physician Services and Margie & Bruce Warwick. Bronze sponsors included Mary Blum, Caron & Bob Dockerty, Betty & Fred Devitt, International College of Health Sciences, Janet & John T.A. Vanderslice, VITAS Healthcare and Lisa & Charles White.
Bethesda Hospital is a healthcare facility that comprises two campuses, Bethesda Hospital East and Bethesda Hospital West. The hospital offers comprehensive services, including a nationally recognized orthopedic total joint replacement program; cardiovascular care; cancer care; vascular, endovascular and robotic surgery; and women’s and children’s services. With roots in Palm Beach County that date from 1947, the Foundation raises awareness and secures funds to assist Bethesda Hospital in improving patient care and enhancing the well-being of the community.
ABOUT BAPIST HEALTH FOUNDATION
The mission of Baptist Health Foundation is to inspire philanthropy and build extraordinary donor relationships in support of excellence, innovation, community wellness and global leadership in healthcare at Baptist Health. Through philanthropy, the Foundation supports and expands Baptist Health’s ability to provide outstanding patient care and bring the latest treatments to patients and families affected by a serious illness. Donor contributions also allow the Foundation to assist Baptist Health facilities in keeping pace with technology and equipment advances, perform cutting-edge research and offer continuing education opportunities to medical staff. Learn more at BaptistHealth.net/Foundation and connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
ABOUT BAPTIST HEALTH
Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
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