UW News

March 6, 2008

Salute Harborview Gala sets record for community support

The 16th Annual UW Medicine Salute Harborview Gala, held Saturday, March 1, at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, raised more than $2 million in gross revenues for Harborview’s Mission of Caring Fund.



“The event was an incredible success,” said Johnese Spisso, Harborview’s interim executive director, UW vice president for medical affairs, and clinical operations officer for UW Medicine. “In addition to nearly doubling our previous record for donations, the outpouring of support reflects a growing awareness of Harborview’s vital role in the community for patients from all walks of life.”


The audience was inspired by the story of Joel Spiegel, a former patient who was treated at Harborview when an innocent-looking rash turned out to be a life-threatening case of flesh-eating bacteria. Following a video presentation about his care, Spiegel and his wife, Karen Van Dusen, personally thanked Harborview’s staff for the skill and compassion that made possible his remarkable recovery.


The presentation of the 2008 Mission of Caring Award to Dr. Leonard Hudson, UW professor of medicine, was another highlight. Hudson was recognized for his contributions to the field of pulmonary and critical care medicine and for his dedication to community service since joining the faculty at Harborview in 1973.


The festive evening concluded with musical entertainment by The Frustrations, who donated their services and had the audience dancing late into the night. Special thanks go to event chairs Susan and Furman Moseley and Martha and Colin Moseley; emcee Molly Shen from KOMO-TV; and the UW Medicine Development team.