Fundraiser In Pasadena Nets $780K For Methodist Hospital

PASADENA, CA — The Methodist Hospital Foundation announced Thursday that its 32nd annual Crystal Ball raised a record-setting $780,000 during festivities at the Pasadena Convention Center on Oct. 9, with proceeds going toward the purchase of advanced technology and innovative treatments that our community needs.

“It was so great to be back in person at Crystal Ball, and every one of the 590 attendees enjoyed a wonderful evening,” said Methodist Hospital Foundation President Mike Driebe. “With funds raised, our hospital is exploring the purchase of a new Da Vinci surgical robot, which is less invasive and enables shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and even better outcomes for patients. In addition, we are developing plans to construct a Hybrid Operating Room, which enables surgeons to perform minimally invasive complex procedures, and can be instantly be converted into an operating room should the need arise.”

The black-tie event included a hosted reception, fine dining, a silent auction, a live auction, and plenty of dancing.

The evening’s entertainment featured The Ultimate Queen Celebration starring Marc Martel, which kept Crystal Ball revelers bouncing to music from the iconic rock and roll band.

Total net funds raised was a record for this year's event, according to organizers. The event featured a moving video of a lifesaving heart attack intervention featuring Cardiologist Grace Huang, MD, and her patient Fred Howe which inspired the fund-a-need live donations at the event. Fund-a-need generated more than $257,000. In addition, a spirited live auction raised $96,050 and a silent auction raised $43,421.

Crystal Ball honorees Aner and Rebecca Iglesias were also recognized for their ongoing support and philanthropy of the hospital. Foundation Board Chair Stephen Soldo, MD, introduced the night’s honorees.

Longtime hospital supporters and event Co-chairs Patty Nijjar and K. Heiner Vogelbach, MD, have collectively chaired this fundraiser five times and partnered together to help make this night extra special for their dear friends and ensure a successful fundraiser for Methodist Hospital. They also shared a special recognition for the 20 members of the 2021 Crystal Ball committee who focused on every aspect of this gala event.

“I emphasize that it is the continued generosity of our community that enables us to consider such new technology,” Driebe said. “Without this support, Methodist Hospital would struggle to offer these capabilities.”