$3.1 Million Worth of Fun

What: Memorial Hermann “Circle of Life” Gala

Where: Hilton-Americas Houston

PC Moment: The 1,600 guests could hardly have imagined having this much fun while raising $3.1 million for a most worthy cause. But so it was when Diane and Bill Campbell and Elizabeth and Will Galtney chaired the gala that this year celebrated the 30th anniversary of Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital. There seemed to be no limit to the fun, highlight of which was the surprise presentation of 40, three-tiered birthday cakes, carried out by wait staff, as the Waltrip High School marching band revved the energy in the vast ballroom. Atlanta based show band Simply Irresistible rocked the night, inspiring those on the dance floor who donned party hats, boas and lighted accessories. And then the finale — a spectacular balloon drop.

For Dr. Benjamin K. Chu, barely a year in his role as Memorial Hermann Health System president and CEO, this was a first. “As I celebrate my first Circle of Life Gala as President and CEO, I am humbled to honor the impact our physicians and staff have had on our pediatric patients over the past 30 years,” he told the gathering. The event honored long-time corporate partner H-E-B and Memorial Hermann board member Scott McClelland, H-E-B Houston CEO.

Night trippers: Donna Moylan, Susie and Dr. Iggy Distefano, Jo Lynn and Gregg Falgout, Philamena and Arthur Baird, Dancie and Jim Ware, Rosanna and Myron Blalock, Holly and Austin Alvis, Jennifer and Brian Caswell, Kimberly Falgout and Eric Scheele, Nina and Edd Hendee, Stacy and Jason Johnson, Laurie and Tracy Krohn, Alice and Keith Mosing, Anne Neeson and Craig Janies, and KHOU Channel 11 anchor Len Cannon, who emceed the evening.