Childerguild Ball Raises Vital Funds for Women’s & Children’s Services at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox

The 96th annual Childerguild Ball, held Saturday, Nov. 22, at The Westin Hotel in Lombard, was an evening of Roaring 20s glitz and glamour as more than 550 guests came together to support women’s and children’s healthcare services at Silver Cross Hospital.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors and donors, the event raised over $556,000 to fund lifesaving programs including the Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic, Birthing Center, comprehensive breast care and Will County’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Presented by First Secure Banks, the gala featured dinner, live and silent auctions, a paddle raise, raffle, wine pull and dancing to the Gentlemen of Leisure.

A highlight of the evening was the conferral of the Silver Cross Medals of Excellence, honoring individuals whose leadership and service have profoundly impacted healthcare and the community:

• Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence for Healthcare was awarded to Dr. Reza Gamagami, a world-renowned pioneer in robotic surgery and founder of Progressive Surgical Associates. Dr. Gamagami has performed more than 5,000 robotic procedures, ranking among the top five surgeons in the nation, and has trained countless physicians in advanced surgical techniques.
• Silver Cross Sangmeister Medal of Excellence for Community Service was presented to Michael Hansen, a distinguished Joliet attorney and civic leader whose decades of service have shaped Will County’s growth and prosperity. Hansen’s contributions span transformative infrastructure projects, economic development initiatives and extensive volunteer leadership for local organizations, including the Silver Cross Foundation.

“Your generosity tonight ensures that every mother, every child and every patient receives the very best care close to home,” said Rita Larson, President of Childerguild. “Together, we are transforming lives.”

Founded in 1910, Childerguild’s mission is to support women’s and children’s healthcare services at Silver Cross Hospital through volunteerism and fundraising. Over the past 115 years, Childerguild has raised more than $6.8 million to fund advanced medical equipment, technology and programs that provide exceptional care for mothers, babies and families throughout the community.

Silver Cross President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Mutterer, RN, MA, LCPC, CADC, LNHA, added, “This event reflects the power of community and the promise of exceptional care. We are deeply grateful to Childerguild, our sponsors and every guest who helped make this evening a success.”

For more information on supporting women’s and children’s services at Silver Cross Hospital, visit silvercross.org/giving or contact the Silver Cross Foundation at (815) 300-7105.