2009 Gift of Health Gala Raises $750,000 for Group Health's Childhood Immunization Initiative

More than 600 guests filled the Grand Ballroom in the Seattle Westin Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 10, at the 8th Annual Gift of Health Gala. Honored guest Gov. Christine Gregoire thanked those in attendance for stepping up to support Group Health's Childhood Immunization Initiative and shared her commitment to raising immunization rates in Washington state.

Group Health President and CEO Scott Armstrong led the evening's program and shared how innovations pioneered at Group Health are influencing health care in our state and around the nation. He also presented the 2009 Innovators in Health Care Award to Rotary Club of Seattle in recognition for the organization's longstanding commitment to improving health for people in developing countries.

Baz Luhrmann's epic movie, Moulin Rouge, provided a festive theme for the gala, complete with French menu, cabaret singer, and can can dancers. The 2009 Gala set a new fundraising record with $750,000 raised to support programs to improve immunization rates across the state.

This year's gala was co-chaired by Jerry and Kate Campbell and Dr. Michael Soman, MD, and Dr. Sara Faulkner, MD. The Gift of Health Gala is grateful for the generous support of our sponsors.