On the evening of October 7, 2023, the Union League of Philadelphia came alive with energy and excitement as The Bee Foundation celebrated its 10th Anniversary Honey Bash Gala. The grand occasion, held in person for the first time since 2019, brought together supporters, survivors, medical professionals, and advocates to mark a decade of unwavering commitment to brain aneurysm prevention and awareness. The $235,000 raised for brain aneurysm prevention was a thrilling milestone, but even more rewarding was the sense of community, love and support that pervaded the event.
Elegance and Purpose
The Honey Bash Gala has always been more than just an event; it’s a platform for meaningful connections and profound impact. This year’s gala exceeded expectations; a glittering occasion marked by both elegance and purpose, with almost 200 guests immersing themselves in an evening of reflection, education and celebration against the backdrop of the Union League’s elegant atmosphere.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed cocktails, delectable hors d’oeuvres, a seated dinner, and the thrill of both live and silent auctions. The gala provided a space for survivors to share their stories, supporters to connect, and advocates to unite.
A Gracious Host
Leading the evening’s festivities was Jessica Kartalija from CBS Philadelphia, whose radiant presence added a touch of glamour to the event. With her warm and engaging style, Jessica guided guests through an enchanting evening filled with unforgettable moments.
Inspiring Keynote
The evening’s program began with a captivating keynote address by J Mocco, MD, MS, a distinguished neurosurgeon and Director of the Cerebrovascular Center at Mount Sinai. Dr. Mocco’s insights into the field of neurosurgery, his dedication to advancing brain aneurysm research and his enthusiasm for TBF’s achievements left an indelible impression on everyone in attendance.
A Teenage Inspiration
Gia Patel, the gala’s guest of honor and a young brain aneurysm survivor, shared her remarkable journey with the audience. At just 15 years old, Gia’s resilience and courage in the face of adversity left everyone inspired and reminded us all of the importance of early detection and support.
Recognizing the Research
Another highlight of the evening was recognizing the recipients of TBF’s 2023 research grants, awarded for innovative approaches to detection, prevention and treatment and made possible by the overwhelming support of three of TBF’s key supporter families. Family representatives joined the researchers on stage to share their commitment and appreciation for the grants, the most recent in TBF’s ongoing grant program:
- Zac Yezzi presented the Yezzi Family Award to Dr. David Altsul for his research into the mental impacts of aneurysm treatment.
- Jaime Meltzer presented the Lora Beth LaBriola Ritchie Family Award to Dr. Scott Simon for his team’s research into the role of iron metabolism in brain aneurysm outcomes.
- Patricia & Ashley McCarthy presented to Brittany McCarthy Family Award to Dr. Visish Srinivasan for his research into defining the epigenome of wide neck aneurysms.
Championing the Cause
Honoring those outstanding individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to brain aneurysm awareness and prevention, the TBF Brain AneurysmChampion Awards recognized:
- J Mocco, MD, MS, Advocacy- Research
- U.S. Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA) – Advocacy
- Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA)
- Awareness & Support to TBF Awareness Ambassadors, – Tricia Scobey. TBF fund-raiser and Ambassador, accepted on behalf of the Ambassadors
- Marie Williams Denslow, Executive Director of the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery – 10th Anniversary Champion. .
A Decade of Dedication
The 10th Anniversary Honey Bash Gala marked not only a year of celebration but a decade of tireless dedication to the cause. It symbolized a journey of progress, hope, and resilience in the fight against brain aneurysms.
Thank You, Sponsors
The success of the gala would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and auction donors. Their commitment to raising brain aneurysm awareness and advancing research is commendable and deeply appreciated.
A Decade of Impact, A Lifetime of Hope
The 10th Anniversary Honey Bash Gala marked not only not only a year of celebration but a decade of tireless dedication to the cause, a journey of progress, resilience, and tremendous achievements. It reflected a growing sense of hope and community, . recognizing lives touched, lost and saved, and celebrating a commitment to a future where brain aneurysms no longer pose a threat. It was a night of unity and purpose, —an evening to remember.
As we look back on this remarkable gala, we are reminded that the journey continues. Together, we will forge ahead, raising awareness, funding critical research, and supporting those affected by brain aneurysms. Here’s to the next decade of impact and a future where every life is safeguarded against this devastating condition. #HoneyBashGala #DecadeOfImpact #BrainAneurysmPrevention
