Le Gala 2025 of the Cedars Cancer Foundation unfolded as a luminous evening of remembrance, gratitude, and forward looking ambition, bringing Montreal’s philanthropic community together at the historic Windsor Station. Held on Friday, November 28, the black-tie event invited guests on a symbolic journey through time, marking three defining milestones in Cedars’ history while reaffirming a collective commitment to excellence in cancer care.
This year’s gala celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Cedars Cancer Foundation, the 25th anniversary of Sarah’s Fund for Cedars, and the 10th anniversary of the Cedars Cancer Centre at the McGill University Health Centre. These anniversaries framed the evening with a sense of continuity and purpose, reminding attendees that progress in cancer care is built through decades of dedication, generosity, and collaboration.
From the moment guests arrived at Windsor Station for the cocktail reception, the atmosphere conveyed both elegance and meaning. The grandeur of the venue provided a fitting backdrop for an event that was officially sold out well in advance, a testament to the enduring trust and support Cedars inspires across Montreal’s business, medical, and philanthropic circles.
The evening also served as a heartfelt tribute to the healthcare practitioners, scientists, and care teams of the MUHC. Their daily work in prevention, treatment, research, and compassionate support was repeatedly acknowledged throughout the program, grounding the gala’s celebratory tone in the human reality of patients and families facing cancer.
Le Gala 2025 was guided by an exceptional group of leaders. Honorary co-chairs Andrew Lutfy and Melanie Cosgrove, George and Simé Armoyan, and Nadim Rizk with Audrey Huot lent their vision and influence to the event. Event co-chairs Paola Aprikian and Daphne Tsadilas Shamie, alongside Dr. Armen Aprikian and Jeff J. Shamie, brought creativity, expertise, and deep personal commitment to every aspect of the evening.
One of the most striking achievements of the night was its fundraising success. Le Gala 2025 raised an extraordinary $4,938,800 for the MUHC Cancer Care Mission, surpassing expectations and reinforcing Cedars’ role as a cornerstone of cancer philanthropy in Quebec. These funds will directly support patient care, research, and education across the full continuum, from pediatric and adolescent services to adult, survivorship, supportive, and palliative care.
Distinguished guests from across the MUHC leadership were present, including representatives from the hospital’s board, executive team, research institute, and nursing leadership. Their presence underscored the close relationship between Cedars and the MUHC, and highlighted how philanthropic support translates into tangible improvements within the healthcare system.
Beyond the numbers, Le Gala 2025 stood out for its sense of shared purpose. From longtime partners to first time supporters, attendees were united by a belief in the power of collective action to transform lives. The evening balanced prestige with sincerity, ensuring that every celebration of success remained connected to the mission at its core.
The Diamond Partner experience exemplified this spirit of generosity, offering supporters a memorable evening complete with VIP access, limousine transportation, and an exclusive behind the scenes connection to the Cedars Cancer Centre. These gestures reflected Cedars’ commitment to recognizing its partners while inviting them to see firsthand the impact of their support. In doing so, Le Gala 2025 strengthened bonds between philanthropy and care. It was an evening that will resonate beyond the ballroom walls.
Le Gala
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