Newman Regional Health’s Denim and Diamonds gala fundraiser is now off the community calendar.
The hospital announced it was canceling the event set for Friday with an increase in COVID-positive cases, both in the community as a whole and at the hospital, according to Chief Executive Officer Bob Wright. Director of Business Development McKenzie Cinelli says the decision came after “much thought and consideration” from the hospital’s administrative team, with the ultimate decision to err on the side of caution.
The fundraiser has typically brought as many as 400 people to the Emporia State campus and generated around $100,000 through the use of a dinner, auctions and entertainment. Recent years have also seen an increasing slate of pre-events to help the cause.
The hospital will refund tickets but will also leave the option open for people wanting to donate to the campaign, which has been funding a simulated apartment suite as part of the inpatient rehabilitation unit.
Cinelli says with the money that has already been raised she is confident they will still be able to construct the new simulated suite with little to no change to the original construction time table.
Residents can still take part in the online silent auction, which will continue through 8 pm Friday, by going online to 2021dd.givesmart.com. More information about event sponsors is available online at www.newmanrh.org/dd/.
