2010

Fundraiser to support Summa Health System’s Women’s Health Services

26 July, 2010

Contact: Julie Uehara Surr, Phone: (330) 375-7117, Email: ueharaj@summahealth.org

AKRON, Ohio, July 26, 2010– The Summa Foundation is proud to host its 10th annual Sapphire Ball at the John S. Knight Center in Akron on Saturday, September 11, 2010. 

Throughout the past decade, funds raised at this signature gala have provided support for several important initiatives, including the Ann and David Brennan Critical Care Center, Palliative Care Services, the Jean and Milton Cooper Cancer Center and the Women’s Health Center. Proceeds from this year’s ball will again support the critical needs of Women’s Health Services.

“Our vision is to become the premier center of women’s healthcare in Ohio through comprehensive care,” said Vivian von Gruenigen, M.D., department chair of obstetrics and gynecology for Summa Health System.  “We provide assistance to women along their entire healthcare journey, including obstetrical and gynecological services as well as subspecialties. The Sapphire Ball proceeds will allow us to increase our care for the women in our communities by providing family- and patient-centered care through the continued development of our facilities and programming.”

Guests at the elegant black-tie fundraiser will enjoy a beautiful evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment.  The event also will include a special presentation of the “Innovation in Health Care Award,” which recognizes individuals or organizations for their exemplary contributions in improving the health status of our communities through leadership on major health policies or social initiatives and/or their innovations in clinical practice, medical research or health services education. 

“The Sapphire Ball is truly a party with a purpose,” said Mary Ann Jackson, member of the Summa Foundation Board of Directors and this year’s Sapphire Ball event chair.  “Yes, we will have fun, and yes, it will be an extraordinary party – but the most important accomplishment will be raising money to support women’s health services and programs.”

What:
10th Annual Sapphire Ball

When:
Saturday, September 11, 2010
6:00 p.m. cocktails
7:00 p.m. dinner and dancing

Where:            
The John S. Knight Center
77 E Mill St
Akron, OH 44308
Valet parking will be available.

Ticket price:    
$200

For more information regarding Sapphire Ball ticket purchases, sponsorship, underwriting and advertising opportunities please contact Summa Foundation Donor Relations Coordinator Diane Bray at 330-375-6891.  You can also visit www.SapphireBall.org or “like” us on Facebook to receive the latest event news, photos and videos (search Sapphire Ball on www.Facebook.com and search for Sapphire Ball).

About Summa Health System
Summa Health System is one of the largest integrated delivery systems in Ohio. Encompassing a network of hospitals, community health centers, a health plan, a physician-hospital organization, a multi-specialty physician organization, research and multiple foundations, Summa is nationally renowned for excellence in patient care and for exceptional approaches to healthcare delivery. Summa's clinical services are consistently recognized by U.S. News and World Report, Thomson Reuters and The Leapfrog Group. Summa also is a founding partner of the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron. For more information, visit www.summahealth.org.

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