February 17, 2009

Publication title: Vancouver Sun, vol. -, Iss. -, pg. –
Place: Vancouver
Writer: Unknown

Krall Benefit Raises More Than $2 Million

VANCOUVER – Diana Krall, James Taylor, Elton John, and Elvis Costello performed before 550 guests at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver as part of Monday night’s, black tie charity benefit, raising more than $2 million.

The funds will help patients with multiple myeloma, leukemia and other blood-related cancers at VGH, according to a news release.

Highlights from the evening’s live auction included a spontaneous offer by Elton John to have one’s own lyrics set to music penned, performed and recorded by Elton John, which was offered to two individuals for $250,000 each. Another unique offering, which went for $120,000, featured an all-inclusive seven-night stay for 10 people at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, compliments of the Radcliffe Foundation, which included a night of campfire songs performed by Sarah McLachlan.

“Our wish has always been to pass along the precious gift of time that we had with our mother and to give other families more time with their own loved ones,” said Diana Krall. “I’m honoured that my husband, Elvis Costello, my dear friends, James Taylor , Elton John and Sarah McLachlan, and so many generous donors and sponsors have joined us in our family’s vision of great care combined with comfort and hope for a cure.”

“Proceeds from this event will help fund research for better, less toxic treatments to help people live longer lives, and ultimately help us find ‘made-in B.C.’ cures for blood cancers,” said Dr. Michael Barnett, Head, Divisions of Hematology, VGH & UBC, in the news release. “These funds will also help us maintain the highest standards of care for patients in the uplifting and supportive surroundings of the Krall Centre here at VGH.”