Tony Award-winning actress Andrea Martin kicked off the Women for Women’s Annual luncheon at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel on Wednesday, November 20, 2013. The event raised $308,000 towards building knowledge and confirming Women’s College Hospital’s role in advocating health solutions. Attendees were nearly 700.
Guests caught up with friends and colleagues and learned more about familial breast and ovarian cancer including how to reduce the risks.“This event reinforces Women’s College Hospital’s role as a global leader in healthcare for women. We are grateful for the support from sponsors and guests in helping build the hospital of the future,” said Sue Carruthers, President and CEO of Women’s College Hospital Foundation.
Through the research collaboration of Women’s College Hospital, the breakthrough BRCA gene discovery allows individuals to more clearly understand the risk of familial breast and ovarian cancer. However, with this ability to test for this marker, women now face the dilemma of personal choice regarding preventative solutions, such as prophylactic surgery.
Prominent cancer survivors joined experts at the 2013 luncheon to discuss the BRCA gene discovery and how it has created tough decisions for women. Guest speakers included: Amy Verner, Fashion and Lifestyle correspondent for The Globe and Mail, and a panel of experts: Dr. Steven Narod, Director of Women’s College Hospital Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit and world leader in the field of breast and ovarian cancer genetics; Anne Parker, cancer survivor, one of the first women to undergo genetic testing for the BRCA gene and subject of the upcoming release, Decoding Annie Parker, Libby Znaimer, cancer survivor and broadcast journalist; and Dr. Marla Shapiro, Medical Expert and Television Host and Moderator.
Guests enjoyed Grilled Oceanwise Salmon Nicoise Salad, shaved fennel and fingerling potatoes in a grainy mustard dressing, free-range eggs, York beans and oven-dried-vine-ripe tomatoes with an herb buttermilk dressing and Mango Passion Fruit Sorbet for dessert.
A limited offering of signature pink bricks were on sale at the luncheon in support of Women’s College Hospital Redevelopment, and can be purchased online.
To get first priority for tickets for next year’s event, sign up for the WFW mailing list.
