Chicago, IL- On Saturday, October 10, Advocate Trinity Hospital held its 2009 annual Gala, appropriately titled "Bright Lights, Big City." Trinity employees, donors and friends gathered to celebrate and support Trinity's mission to become one of Illinois' stroke certified hospitals in 2010 as proceeds from this year's event benefitted stroke services.

The annual event, which was held at the Chicago Illuminating Company, raised over $100,000, making it Trinity's most successful gala in history. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, dinner and dancing. Speakers included Jon Bruss, Trinity Hospital President, Anedra Kerr, Vice President of Development, and Reverend Ozzie Smith, Chair of the Governing Council.  A special guest speaker also included Darryl Holmes, a stroke victim who is currently undergoing rehabilitation at Trinity. Holmes spoke of the importance to provide these types of treatments to the community as Trinity's area has the highest incidence of stroke in the city.

Trinity has been committed to pursuing Primary Stroke Center certification through the Joint Commission since October 2008. The hospital will become one of only 27 Primary Stroke Centers in the state of Illinois. When detected early, some strokes can be reversed or damages to the brain tissue can be kept to a minimum. Donations from the gala will greatly impact the hospital's ability to provide specialized treatments for stroke including 24 hour, seven-day-a-week access to a team of specially trained physicians and nurses. The hospital will also provide outreach programs and education focused on recognizing the signs of stroke the second symptoms begin.

In addition to highlighting stroke services, the Gala honored Trinity Medical Staff member Dr. Paul Crawford, a Nephrologist, with the Barbara K. Minister Community Service Award.  The award purpose is to recognize and celebrate the contributions of an exceptional leader whose service to Trinity Hospital and the surrounding community have both a positive and lasting impact. Dr. Crawford was chosen for these qualities during his 30 years at the hospital.

Members of the Gala Planning Committee all agreed that the event was exactly what they envisioned and hoped for. "The night was an overwhelming success. We set a new milestone at Trinity, raising more this year than ever before. I am extremely proud to work for an organization filled with such generous people. These donations will truly make an impact on many lives," said Kerr.

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Photo caption 1: Anedra Kerr, Vice President of Development, thanked Trinity employees, donors and friends for their support and participation in this year's gala.