Victoria Hospitals Foundation Raises $3.65M at Visions Gala

The Victoria Hospitals Foundation achieved a remarkable milestone on November 22, 2025, raising $3.65 million during its 33rd annual Visions Gala. This record-breaking amount will significantly enhance surgical and oncology care at the Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals, supporting the foundation’s ambitious $21 million “It’s Time for Surgical Evolution” campaign.

More than 640 guests attended the black-tie event held at the Fairmont Empress, co-emceed by CHEK News anchor Stacy Ross and urologist Dr. Iain McAuley. The evening’s success reflects the community’s commitment to advancing healthcare in Greater Victoria.

At the gala, Avery Brohman, CEO of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, expressed gratitude for the generosity of donors, stating, “Victoria continues to punch above its weight: our hospitals are exceptional, our surgeons are at the top of their game, and the innovation we are leading is not happening this quickly anywhere else.” He emphasized that the funds raised will directly impact patient care by facilitating the acquisition of cutting-edge medical technology.

Innovations in Surgical Care

The funds secured during the gala will support the purchase of vital advancements in surgical technology. Among these is a second da Vinci surgical robot, which will enhance minimally invasive procedures, particularly in gynecologic oncology and pediatric surgery. Additionally, the campaign will fund Vancouver Island’s first neurosurgery robot, positioning Victoria among a select few health centres in Canada with access to this advanced technology.

The foundation also plans to acquire 60 precision oncology tools, providing local surgeons and oncologists with state-of-the-art equipment typically found in major national cancer centres. Guests at the gala had the opportunity to interact with robotic surgical suites that will soon be installed at Victoria General Hospital, demonstrating the technology’s potential to transform patient outcomes.

The evening’s pledge drive achieved unprecedented success, spurred by a $1 million matching donation from philanthropist Craig Mearns. This momentum was further bolstered by a $500,000 gift from Andrew Sheret Limited, designated specifically for women’s health initiatives.

Community Support and Future Goals

The Victoria Hospitals Foundation is now closer to realizing its goal of modernizing surgical care across Greater Victoria. General surgeon Heather Emmerton-Coughlin, who spoke at the event, highlighted the importance of innovation in cancer treatment, stating, “Innovative surgical systems and technology help us to provide better care, with better outcomes after cancer surgery. Once a cancer is diagnosed, innovation in treatment is equally vital.”

To learn more about the Surgical Evolution campaign or to make a donation, interested individuals can visit the Victoria Hospitals Foundation’s official website. The success of the Visions Gala not only underscores the generosity of the local community but also sets a promising trajectory for the future of healthcare in the region.