SVS FOUNDATION ‘Great Gatsby Gala’ adds flair to Vascular Annual Meeting

By Marlén Gomez

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED “GREAT GATSBY GALA,” hosted by the SVS Foundation, added a whirlwind of excitement and philanthropy to VAM 2023. The event, held at the same Gaylord National Convention Center venue as VAM, transported attendees back to the era of the legendary literary classic, The Great Gatsby, emulating the parties of the Roaring Twenties.

Gala Committee Co-Chairs Venita Chandra, MD, and Leigh Ann O’Banion, MD, announced during the evening that the third annual Foundation Gala of recent times raised more than $200,000 in support of vascular health.

“An inspiring moment occurred towards the end of the night when everybody raised their paddles and pledged to donate $100,” said O’Banion.

“I didn’t expect to see so many raised, and it was amazing to witness everyone’s willingness to donate once again and support the mission we aimed to accomplish that evening.”

As in previous years, the event was sold out. Chandra noted that ticket sales sold out even earlier than last year’s Gala, serving as a testament to the importance of this event for the Foundation as well as to people’s enjoyable experience in previous years.

The festivities began with a pre-event reception, the Sur- geon Speakeasy. Attendees enjoyed an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a jazz band, a photo booth and flapper-girl entertainment. The ambiance complemented the guests’ attire as they embraced the time’s fashions.

“The 1920s theme was a tremendous success,” said Chandra. “It was delightful to see people inspired and dressed appropriately for the occasion, which set a festive atmosphere for the entire Gala. Many got into the theme, but everyone came ready to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Foundation and its mission.”

The evening included a Live Auction, with participants competing for an array of exclusive items and experiences. The night’s most competitive bidding war was for a spot on the annual University of Florida and Women’s Vascular Surgery fishing trip weekend, which was donated by Keith Ozaki, MD.

The Vascular Hero video screening, during which loved ones delivered heartfelt messages to the vascular surgeons in the room, was a standout, emotional moment of the night.

“It served as a reminder that, despite our role as vascular surgeons dedicated to advancing science, we are also children of parents and cherished by our families,” said O’Banion. “The video left many in the room in tears, highlighting the genuine humanity of vascular surgeons, and honoring their dedication.”

A DJ took the stage to sustain the energetic atmosphere, setting the tone for a night of dancing and merriment. Attendees showcased their best dance moves, bringing the spirit of the 1920s to life and fostering an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie among the vascular surgery ranks.

The festivities continued at another sold-out after-party, with saxophonists and an assortment of other forms of entertainment.

Reflecting on the night’s success, Chandra and O’Banion expressed their deep appreciation to everyone who attended, supported and contributed to the Gala.

“We couldn’t have done it without the collective effort of our amazing Gala Committee,” said Chandra. “Everyone played a vital role in advancing the Foundation’s mission and ensuring a brighter future for vascular health.”