CELEBRATE
Pare
WINTER 2023 | VOLUME 42
nts, Stev e an
Photo credit: Flytographer
the Gift of Life
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athe r,
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ient, Ja
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d sister, J
ade.
James' Transplant Story
James' Transplant Story
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Message from the Chairman
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Message from the CEO
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On January 22, 2021, Heather and Steve Lazeski
James
Message from the SVP, Fund Development
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welcomed a beautiful baby boy, James, into
TRANSPLANT NEEDED: HEART
Message from the Director of Family Relations
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James' Transplant Journey Continued
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DFF Joins Circle of Excellence!
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January 31, 2021, Heather and Steve were recovering from a long
Flytographer Thank You
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night with a fussy newborn. Noticing that James felt cold, it was
LifeNote Concert
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decided to call the midwife. Upon speaking to the midwife James’
A Night of Philanthropy, Talent and Impact
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colour quickly turned mottled and grey. A call to 911 was made and
Laver Cup: Serving Up Inspiration
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Simply Spectacular Los Cabos— A Journey of Storytelling, Talent & Generosity
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Thank You to All Our Partners
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the world. His big sister, two-year-old Jade, was excited to have a new baby in the family. And
HOME: PEACHLAND, BC
the family returned home to Peachland, BC after an uneventful pregnancy and delivery. On the morning of
James was rushed to Kelowna General Hospital. Upon arrival, James was in cardiogenic shock and hypothermic. When he was stabilized enough, he was flown to BC Children’s Hospital. In the following days, it was determined that James’ heart was barely functioning, but with the help of an IV medication to support his heart function, it slowly improved. Over the next three weeks, he was weaned off of his IV medications and transitioned into medications administered by
212 HENRY ST., VICTORIA, BC V9A 3H9 OFFICE: 250.475.1223 FAX: 250.475.1193 TOLL FREE: 1.877.777.7675 DAVIDFOSTERFOUNDATION.COM
mouth. Heather and Steve found out that they are both carriers of a genetic defect in the exact same gene. They both gave James their defected copy. With that information, he was officially diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and left ventricular cardiomyopathy. CONTINUES ON PAGE 4
Shared Victories Message from the Chairman
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s I reflect on 2023, I am filled with sincere gratitude for the commitment you have shown my Foundation. Your generosity has been the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to make significant strides in assisting families and enhancing lives through organ donation. Thank you for standing with us on this extraordinary journey. The impact of your support resonates in the stories of the families we assist. Your ongoing commitment plays a crucial role in our mission to create a world where nobody has to wait for a second chance at life. As we start our 38th year for the Foundation, I'm really excited about what this year could bring. With your
strong support, we can do even more. Each of us has the power to make a difference, and together, we can provide that much needed financial assistance for the families of children we support. Here's to a year of renewed commitment and shared victories.
With heartfelt appreciation,
David Foster, OC, OBC Founder and Chairman David Foster Foundation
David Foster and Khai Macleod, multivisceral transplant recipient.
Making A Difference Message from the Chief Executive Officer
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s we bid farewell to an incredible 2023, I am filled with gratitude for all of the support we received by supporters. The recent Simply Spectacular Los Cabos event stands as a true testament to the power of our David Foster Foundation community as donors, staff, and partners united to create a truly extraordinary experience. The generosity we have received has not only assisted in the support of children going through the life-saving organ transplant process but has also highlighted our collective commitment to our mission. The success of 2023 was due to a combination of support we received through the Laver Cup and Simply Spectacular Los Cabos events, from our staff and board of directors, and from the commitment of supporters like you!
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Winter 2023
As we move into 2024, let's carry this momentum forward. Your continued support will fuel our future endeavors, bringing us closer to a future where every individual has the opportunity for a healthier and fulfilling life. Together, we are making a difference and your belief in us is the driving force behind our success!
With sincere appreciation,
HCol Michael Ravenhill Chief Executive Officer David Foster Foundation Honourary Colonel Canadian Armed Forces 410 Tactical Fighter Squadron
Mike Ravenhill alongside Khai and Julia Macleod enjoying their favourite pastime!
"Act of Giving": Your New Year's Resolution Message from SVP, Fund Development
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annual New Year's resolutions later and my proverbial "act-ofgiving" tank is still full. I hope you feel the same. As you may recall, over the past ten years, I have advocated that the act, not necessarily the amount of giving, is the essence of philanthropy. Most people shy away from using the term philanthropy, as to most of us, it is obstruse and to many, it equates to a perceived larger sum of money than we wish give or are able to afford. When I looked up the meaning of philanthropy, I was drawn to two points; a clear idea of the impact and making life better for others. Important to note that the amount was not mentioned.
• Making life better for others: We support every Canadian family that has a child going through the life-saving pediatric organ transplants and requires financial assistance. We create more tomorrows for families, today and it doesn’t get any better than that. Imagine: In 2022, the most current statistics, the David Foster Foundation provided financial support to a third of all the Canadian families that had a child go through the life-saving organ transplant process. You can make an impact and make life a little better for others today by:
I am honoured that as a not-for-profit, the Foundation accomplishes both criteria;
• Making a one-time donation • Making monthly donations
• Impact: When you make a restricted donation, 100% of your donation goes directly to the families we support, not a penny to our administrative cost.
Please refer to "How to make a donation to the Foundation", above, to ensure a seamless process of giving.
How to make a donation to the Foundation: 1. Mail your cheques to David Foster Foundation, 212 Henry Street, Victoria BC V9A 3H9 2. Please call 1-877-777-7675 3. Online through PayPal at davidfosterfoundation.com 4. Electronic funds transfer— please email info@davidfosterfoundation.com
Very best to you and your family for a health, happy and prosperous 2024! With sincere regards,
John Danson SVP, Fund Development
Compassion and Unity Message from Director of Family Relations
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his season, the connection between the gifts we exchange and the gift of organ donation resonates deeply. Just as a thoughtfully chosen present brings joy and comfort, the invaluable gift of life given through organ donation transforms the lives of those in need. The spirit of giving, whether in material gifts or the selfless act of organ donation, creates a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond the holiday festivities. At the Foundation, we witness the impact of your generosity on families facing the complexities of organ transplants. Your support not only provides vital financial assistance but also serves as a beacon of hope, assuring these families that they are not alone in their journey.
This embodies the true essence of the holiday spirit, where giving becomes a profound expression of compassion and unity. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to all the social workers and resource navigators at children’s Aleea and Julia, mother of transplant recipient, Khai, who hospitals across Canada received a multivisceral transplant. that I work with daily. The assistance you provide to me truly does With heartfelt appreciation, make it possible for the Foundation to help the families we do, and your work is the ultimate act of compassion. Wishing you and your loved ones a year filled with warmth and joy.
Aleea Dahinden Director of Family Relations The David Foster Foundation
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Three weeks later, James showed more signs of his heart struggling. Increased work of breath witnessed by his pediatrician sent him back to BC Children’s Hospital. Again, for three weeks, it was the same with being on IV cardiac function medication support, and then a medication adjustment to go home with. Jade was excited to come home just in time for the Easter bunny and her third birthday.
Photo credit: Flytographer
The next few months were filled with new challenges of caring for a medically fragile baby. Supplementing James' breastmilk with more calories, an extensive list of medications, but enjoying life outside of hospital. On July 31, 2021, while out camping for the weekend, Heather and Steve noticed that 6-month-old James had a lack of appetite and was once again irritable. Through intuition that something was wrong, they drove to Kelowna General Hospital and he was once again flown to BC Children’s Hospital. James needed his cardiac supports once again. It was then discussed and agreed upon with his cardiologist there that he needed to be on the heart transplant list. He was proving that he could not thrive at home on his oral medications. BC Children’s Hospital did not offer a heart transplant program at the time, and they waited on transfer to Edmonton’s Stollery Hospital. On August 10, 2021, Heather and James had a traumatic flight to Edmonton. James went into cardiac arrest while flying over Salmon Arm. The decision was made to keep him on his route to Edmonton, Alberta and hold onto hope he could make it. He arrested for the second time in the ambulance on the way to the Stollery. Once he got there, he was crashed on ECMO. He received 48 minutes of chest compressions, therefore there was talk about what his organ damage was. It was a long few days of tests to hear the great news that his brain function was okay. He suffered liver damage and kidney failure. He was on dialysis to help his kidneys, he was eventually taken off of ECMO and transitioned into a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). After his kidneys improved, and he was off dialysis, he got his Berlin Heart, extubated, and officially listed for a new heart. Waiting inpatient for six months in another province and city was not easy. Heather's uncle happened to have a vacant house in Edmonton that Steve, Heather and Jade moved into. Heather's parents also moved in to help with looking after Jade and care for James. Juggling two kids in two separate places with different needs and trying to make it as normal as possible for little Jade she was registered for activities like swimming and ballet. Due to COVID-19, visitors were restricted, and Jade was only allowed to visit her brother once a month. Still balancing having a mortgage and animals back at home in Peachland, the family dog, Niko, had to be surrendered to the BCSPCA. The cats were fostered by a lovely family. James had his challenges on his Berlin Heart, but he got bigger and learned to sit up. He was generally a happy guy, even though he was very sick. He had a few visits back up to the PCICU, but overall spent most of his time on the acute floor playing the waiting game and flirting with the nurses.
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Winter 2023
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On January 9, 2022, Heather and Steve finally got ‘the call’, but after a long day, experienced what is called a ‘dry run’. Meaning, for an unforeseen reasons it was decided that that heart was not best fit for James and it was cancelled. James' first birthday came on January 22, 2022. He had special allowance to have grandma and grandpa there, along with Heather, Steve, and Jade. He even got to celebrate with his roommate, who was also on a Berlin Heart of whom we called ‘Berlin buddies’. In January of 2022, the David Foster Foundation began supporting the Lazeski family financially as they waited for James' transplant. The Foundation provided support with things like mortgage payments, car payments, food and utility bills, and costs associated with the family temporarily relocating to Edmonton. This financial support continued on into 2023 as James' transplant journey continued. Five days after his birthday, James’ birthday wish came true. He received his special gift of life. He went into the OR at 5:30pm and Heather, Steve, grandma and grandpa waited anxiously at home in Edmonton to hear that his new heart was beating perfectly, seven hours later. Postoperatively James had struggles but overall he did quite well. He was suddenly extremely hungry and went on to get his NG tube removed and proved just how good you can feel with an actual working organ! He was discharged from the hospital 12 days following his heart transplant. The Lazeski family stayed in Edmonton for a little over two months, then returned to Peachland as James' appointments spaced out. James care was transitioned back to BC Children’s Hospital where he had appointments three weeks apart, then monthly, then every second month, then every three. For nearly the rest of the year James lived a wonderful life back at home. He learned how to crawl, and was quite fast at it! He learned how to play and new words. He sees a child development specialist, physical therapy, speech therapy, and his pediatrician regularly. On December 16, 2022, again at a pediatrician appointment, a gallop was noticed. To be safe, Heather and Steve left Jade with grandma and drove James to BC Children’s once again. There it was noticed that James was in a heart rhythm called ectopic atrial tachycardia. He was again put on more cardiac supports. James then battled RSV, a scary blood clot in his heart that partially dislodged into his leg, and this abnormal heart rhythm. For three months the Lazeski’s were once again displaced and living in Vancouver while James worked on getting better. Back home to Peachland, but this time on more medications than ever. Upon a cardiac catheterization appointment in June of this year it was learned that James has cardiac allograft vasculopathy. It is a chronic rejection that means he will need to have another heart transplant. It is hard for the family to know that James’ body is rejecting the transplant, but it’s easy to see that James is a happy boy at home with his family.
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DFF Joins Circle of Excellence The Foundation Joins Forces with the American Society of Transplantation to Promote the Circle of Excellence
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ith over 107,000 people waiting for an organ transplant within the U.S. and Canada combined, the Foundation and the American Society of Transplantation (AST) are joining forces to raise awareness of the critical need for registered organ donors and encourage the support of a ground-breaking initiative that is reshaping the support of living transplant donors. The AST Living Donor Circle of Excellence is a no-cost recognition program which celebrates companies that offer paid sick leaves to employees who become living donors. The financial hardships associated with living organ donations are one of the major discouragements, and this program makes living donations more accessible. "Living donors are heroes amongst us: Their gift is lifesaving for patients needing a kidney or liver transplant and has a huge positive impact on society,” said John Gill, MD, American Society of Transplantation. “We are thrilled to partner with the David Foster Foundation to raise awareness about living donations support through the Circle of Excellence." It may come as a surprise to many, but there are currently over 100,000 Americans waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. In Canada, roughly 90% of residents support organ donation, however only 32% are registered. These are just some of the shocking statistics that has led to these two top organ transplant awareness organizations coming together to start the conversation, but it will take as many people as possible to truly initiate a change for the better.
We are proud to have helped families across Canada, however there is definitely more work to be done,” said Honourary Colonel Michael Ravenhill, Chief Executive Officer, David Foster Foundation. “By working with The American Society of Transplantation, this helps us reach a broader audience and unify our approach raising awareness of the need for new registered organ and tissue donors. Remember, there may come a time that you may be one of the lives that needs to be saved.
How you can help: 1. Visit davidfosterfoundation.com and AST’s Living Donor Circle of Excellence at livingdonorcircle.com to see how you can help, 2. Register to become an organ donor and share your wishes with your family, 3. Talk to your employer about becoming a member of the Circle of Excellence, or 4. Follow @DavidFosterFoundation and @AST_Transplantation on Instagram. Find us on Facebook for latest updates.
Flytographer Thank You! T
he David Foster Foundation would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you for another year of partnership allowing us to gift precious memories to families whose children are organ transplant recipients. Your support has brought immense joy and beautifully captured the strength within these remarkable journeys. We are grateful for your partnership in making lasting impacts. Left: Brynleigh, heart transplant recipient, and her sister in Edmonton, AB. Right: Klive, multivisceral transplant recipient, and his parents in Calgary, AB.
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Winter 2023
Young Musicians for a Noble Cause!
Above: LifeNote musicians celebrating giving back through the gift of music. Far Right: Shania begun attending LifeNote concerts from a young age which has encouraged her to promote leadership and fundraising into her early adult life.
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n October, the enchanting melodies of LifeNote echoed through The Merc at the Old Town Temecula Community Theatre in Southern California. Led by the neurosurgeon Dr. Dan Friedlich, a group of young musicians graced the stage, not only showcasing their musical prowess but also dedicating their efforts to a noble cause—raising awareness about organ donation. All proceeds from the concert went towards supporting the David Foster Foundation. Among the audience was Shania, a dedicated participant in this initiative for 10 years since the young age of 8. Each year, she captivates the audience with her classical piano performances alongside teacher Ms. Yiyi Ku, raising funds for various charitable causes. Shania's journey has allowed her to witness firsthand the inspiration that comes from giving back. Now in her freshman year at UCLA, majoring in Biology, Shania aspires to a career in medicine, fully committing herself to philanthropy. She actively engages in esteemed clubs such as the Bruin Surgical Undergraduate Society and the California Health Professional Student Alliance. Shania inspired the UCLA Music Club to raise money for the Foundation and their donations were presented at the most recent LifeNote concert.
Kane, heart transplant recipient, and parents in Toronto, ON.
Wes, waiting for a heart transplant in Toronto, ON since November 2022.
Thank you LifeNote for your continued support and efforts in raising awareness about the importance of organ donation and we applaud Shania in her philanthropic efforts. Visit and follow LifeNote’s Instagram @LifeNoteMusic for more information about this extraordinary concert series!
To date, LifeNote has successfully raised over $30,000 for the Foundation. Their unwavering commitment has not only contributed to financial support but has played a pivotal role in raising awareness for organ donor registration. LifeNote has become a beacon for highlighting the value of giving back, while simultaneously encouraging young talents to pursue their passion for music.
James, heart transplant recipient, and Mom Heather in Kelowna, BC.
Ryland (top), kidney transplant recipient, & brother in Winnipeg, MB.
The David Foster Foundation
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A Night of Philanthropy, Talent and Impact
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e're thrilled to share the success of An Evening to Inspire, a remarkable event hosted at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel on November 17th, 2023. The night unfolded as a seamless blend of philanthropy, captivating and entertainment, courtesy of Victoria BC's generous community. The collective spirit of generosity at the event inspired a remarkable achievement—over $50,000 was raised to support The David Foster Foundation. This significant sum stands as a testament to our shared dedication to assisting families with children in need of life-saving organ transplants. Our heartfelt appreciation extends to the sponsors and Madone Pelan, Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s General Manager, the emcee, Ed Bain, and all whose unwavering dedication played a pivotal role in the success of the event. Your commitment ensures the continued triumph of initiatives like An Evening to Inspire, and we're truly grateful for your steadfast partnership. Vonzell Solomon on stage in the David Foster Foundation Theatre.
Justin Guarini also performed at the David Foster Foundation Theatre.
Ed Bain and his band Big Font had everyone up out of their seats dancing!
The evening commenced with delicious food from the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s catering team, a live auction, and an inspiring family story from the Kornelsons, whose daughter Stevie received a life-saving heart transplant after being on the transplant list for 176 days. As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was filled with dancing and musical talent, creating memorable moments for all in attendance. Adding a spectacular musical touch were the incredible performances by Vonzell Solomon, a former American Idol finalist, and Justin Guarini, an accomplished singer, songwriter, and actor, renowned for his debut on American Idol. The night reached its crescendo with Ed Bain's band, Big Font, ensuring everyone left with a melody in their hearts.
Photo credit: Kamr Design
Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel for their commitment and support of the David Foster Foundation. Together, we are truly making a difference.
Save the Date!
Stay tuned for the 2024 date to be released soon The Kornelsons shared their inspiring story of Stevie's heart transplant and how the Foundation supported them.
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Winter 2023
Laver Cup: Serving Up Inspiration!
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n the weekend of tennis extravaganza that unfolded in Vancouver, the city witnessed an unparalleled synergy between sportsmanship and philanthropy as the Laver Cup and the David Foster Foundation came together for a grand slam of giving. The festivities kicked off on Thursday, September 21, with the much-anticipated Laver Cup Open Practice Day at Rogers Arena. Tennis enthusiasts flocked to witness some of the world's top players, including Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Taylor Fritz, and others, fine-tune their games ahead of the main competition set to take place over the weekend. The Laver Cup's unique format, bringing together players who are typically rivals, created an electric atmosphere that left fans enthralled.
Team World Captain, John McEnroe and David Foster.
The Open Practice Day wasn't merely a showcase of skill; it was a family-friendly event featuring spectacular lighting, music, on-court interviews, and an opportunity for over 2,000 local kids from tennis programs and schools across Vancouver to witness the magic firsthand. Julia and Khai Macleod joined this special event to share the story of Khai’s life-saving multivisceral transplant and raise awareness about the work the David Foster Foundation does and the need for more registered organ donors.
David Foster speaking about the work the Foundation does at Open Practice Day.
Throughout the weekend, the Laver Cup showcased not only tennis excellence but also a shared commitment to philanthropy. The David Foster Foundation, being the charity of choice, was highlighted throughout the weekend. Thank you, Laver Cup, for your support and dedication to our cause! To learn more about the Laver Cup and their next tournament in Berlin, please visit www.lavercup.com. David Foster and Steve Zacks, Laver Cup CEO.
I’m delighted Laver Cup has chosen to make the David Foster Foundation their charity of choice. To be able to merge two of my passions like this is wonderful, and I know together we will raise both awareness and funds to improve and save lives.” —David Foster, OC, OBC, Founder & Chairman David Foster Foundation Photo credit: Ben Solomon
Below: Mike Ravenhill, David Foster, Katharine McPhee, with the Khai, Julia, and Kathleen Macleod.
Simply Spectacular Los Cabos — A Journey This extraordinary event highlighted the power of coming together, sharing stories, and making a difference in the lives of transplant families.
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n the picturesque setting of Los Cabos, from November 30 to December 3, 2023, the David Foster Foundation hosted its main fundraising event for the year, Simply Spectacular Los Cabos. This four-day spectacle was a celebration of talent, teamwork, and support from donors.
Thelma Houston dazzling the audience.
The festivities commenced with a breathtaking evening hosted by Jonathon and Christine Fischer at their Ballena Bay residence in Chileno Bay. The night unfolded against the backdrop of the sparkling waters, setting the stage for the upcoming spectacular days. The ambiance was elevated by the soulful tunes of local band The Kilometro, creating the perfect atmosphere to kick off the event. As the sun rose on the second day, guests embarked on a journey of authentic experiences across Los Cabos. Some indulged in cooking classes and perfume creation at Flora Farms, while others sought adventure in the adrenaline-packed Wild Canyon on ATVs. Deep-sea fishing enthusiasts were treated to a successful day of catching marlin and mahi mahi, while those at the Solaz resort enjoyed all the luxury amenities. The second evening was held at Rancho La Huerta in Chileno Bay, with vibrant colours and exceptional food stations. The evening's host was Melissa Peterman who had everyone hysterically laughing followed by performances by Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Thelma Houston, Katharine McPhee, and the incomparable David Foster and his
Photo credit: Vito Amati Photography
There is no way we can forget CeeLo Green!
A dynamic duo! Ruben Studdard & Clay Aiken performing on Friday evening.
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Winter 2023
Aboard the Northern Dream in the heart of Cabo.
of Storytelling, Talent & Generosity band. The night concluded with a mesmerizing drone show that captivated not only the guests but also passersby in the distance. The third day brought diverse activities, with a highlight being the luxury 120' Northern Dream yacht. Guests created memories against the backdrop of the ocean, swimming, and even witnessing the majestic beauty of whales. The final night was all-white with a touch of blue, hosted on the resort's property. The culinary team crafted decadent dishes, setting the stage for an evening that blended inspiration with giving. Khai Macleod's life-saving multivisceral transplant story touched hearts, inspiring generosity and commitment. The skilled and most impressive Eric Bedard was amongst guests, bringing an element of magic to the night. The surprise recognition of Joan and Paul Waechter as the 2023 Humanitarians added a poignant touch, with a one-of-a-kind sculpted eagle by Maarten Schaddelee. Performances by David Foster, Katharine McPhee, Thelma Houston, and CeeLo Green energized the crowd, culminating in a breathtaking firework display that illuminated the night sky—a fitting finale to a truly spectacular event. Simply Spectacular Los Cabos was more than a fundraiser; it was a journey of storytelling, talent, and philanthropy. As guests departed, they carried with them not only the memories of vibrant performances and breathtaking moments but also the knowledge that their support would contribute to the David Foster Foundation's mission for generations to come. This extraordinary event highlighted the power of coming together, sharing stories, and making a difference in the lives of transplant families.
Melissa Peterman, celebrity MC for the weekend, created endless laughter amongst guests.
Joan and Paul Waechter were recognized as the 2023 Humanitarians of the Year.
Working together with the Chileno Bay Foundation to continue helping the lives of children.
Katharine McPhee with John "JR" Robinson on the final night. The David Foster Foundation
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THANK YOU TO ALL OUR PARTNE RS Life Legacy Members The Anschutz Foundation
Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation
Jim and Sandi Treliving James Wilson and Vivian Roy Newton Glassman Charitable Foundation in Partnership with Catalyst Capital Group
Jim Pattison Walter and Maria Schneider
Kyle MacDonald and John Franklin
Argyros Family Foundation
Joan and Paul Waechter
National Partners
Cares for Kids Community Partners