Mercy Hospital turns 60 this December, and to celebrate the milestone, hundreds joined together for the annual Mercy Foundation Gala, paying tribute to both the hospital and the Foundation’s numerous achievements.

Fittingly titled “Diamond,” the October 30th fundraiser at the InterContinental Hotel Miami also honored the past presidents of the Mercy medical staff. Recognized for their service, which has spanned, collectively, more than half a century, the former leaders received the prestigious Monsignor Bryan O. Walsh Humanitarian Award, and were singled out for their exemplary dedication to the hospital’s growth and development — both in South Florida and beyond its borders.

The “Diamond” Gala featured entertainment by GRAMMY award-winning singer Willy Chirino, as well as fashions, created specifically for the Gala’s silent auction, by Miami-based couture designers. Mayda Cisneros, Rene Ruiz, Victoria Lopez Castro, Gabriela Arango and Rosina Malta (fur designer) unveiled signature gowns and a fur, designed in purple and/or red (the colors of the Gala), proceeds of which benefited the Mercy Foundation. The silent auction additionally offered a myriad of generously donated items including works of art, sports memorabilia and jewelry.

“We are grateful to the countless supporters and enthusiastic volunteers who have helped make this special edition of our time-honored fundraiser a true success,” said Josie Romano Brown, Mercy Foundation President. “Each year, the Gala spotlights service to cause and community. It’s an honor to celebrate the depth and longevity of that dedication by Mercy Hospital and the ongoing commitment by its Medical Staff to delivering compassionate, quality care.”

Additionally receiving special recognition were the “Diamond” event organizers: Gala Chairpersons, Mr. & Mrs. Jacobo Gadala-María, Jr. and Dr. & Mrs. Rolando De León; Journal Chairs Dr. & Mrs. Rafael J. Mas; Auction Chairs Dr. & Mrs. Michael Gordon; and Gala committee members.

About the Mercy Foundation:

The Mercy Foundation exists to advance and support the mission and healthcare ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine. During the last 60 years this has been accomplished through fundraising for Mercy Hospital and its outreach programs, such as the St. John Bosco Clinic. In the last five years, the Foundation has been instrumental in the success of many valuable projects and community outreach programs, including the St. John Bosco Clinic, the School of Licensed Practical Nursing, the Ortega Bonet Miami Cancer Center, the Kohly Center for Rehabilitation and the Colt Neuro-Intensive Care Unit. The Foundation was successful in raising $15 million during the VISION campaign for the expansion and renovation of the Emergency Department.

Photographs of the event