Washington Hospital Healthcare Foundation Hosted a Memorable Evening in Italia!

The 38th Annual Top Hat Gala, held on Saturday, Oct. 12, was an unforgettable night and a remarkable success, raising over $980,000 in gross revenue donations! The Washington Hospital Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors and attendees, with proceeds going toward a new MRI machine for Washington Hospital.

As the Healthcare System grows and the new Level II Trauma Center opens, a 3 Tesla wide-bore MRI machine is needed on the hospital's main campus. This state-of-the-art imaging device will enhance patient outcomes with ultra-high resolution imaging, enabling more detailed readings for earlier and more accurate diagnoses. Additionally, it will allow the healthcare team to provide new, advanced procedures locally that patients previously had to travel outside the community to receive.

The gala was held in a beautifully themed Italian garden under ideal fall weather, where guests enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, and themed photo opportunities. The event tent transformed the parking lot into an elegant venue with lighting, French doors, and decorative windows. Attendees enjoyed a gourmet meal, a captivating performance by Italian tenor Pasquale Esposito, and a lively auction, which brought in generous donations. The night continued with dancing, fireside coffee, and desserts until midnight.

Sophia Ahmad, President of the Foundation, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I want to sincerely thank all our generous supporters, especially Dearborn & Associates Institute for Joint Restoration, Fremont Bank, Sharon Gallacher and family, Supervisor Elisa Marquez, Sisters of the Holy Family, and UCSF Health, who helped make the night a success.” Special thanks were given to event chairs Dr. Ramin Beygui and Dr. Sandeep Kunwar, as well as to Gabrielle Oyler for sharing her impactful patient story. The event was emceed by KTVU’s Alex Savidge.

It’s not too late to support this cause! Visit whhs.com/donate or call 510.818.7350.