The Memorial Hermann Foundation’s “Can’t Stop The Feeling” Gala Dazzles In $4 Million Night

Beloved Medical Cause Lights Up The Night…And Hearts

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Priscilla Dickson and Daniel Ortiz

THE SCENE: The Hilton-Americas Houston was the setting for one of Space City’s most anticipated Spring fundraising events. A sold-out crowd featuring over 450 of the area’s most notable community leaders, medical advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the annual Memorial Hermann Foundation Gala. This year’s theme, “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” kept the fun at epic levels throughout the night, resulting in another highly successful night for the organization.

THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured an elegant mix of traditional black-tie attire, along with patrons donning metallics, bright colors, prints, and dinner jackets in a variety of colors. The result was a warm and welcoming environment for everyone who attended.

The night began with a cocktail reception outside the Hilton Americas-Houston ballroom foyer. During the reception, guests brimmed with anticipation for the fun that lay ahead, an event that always dazzles and surprises; this year was to be no exception.

Guests then gathered inside the Hilton Americas-Houston Ballroom for the main program. Jaws dropped as Ward & Ames Special Events, Deuster, and Blooming Gallery teamed up to transform the space into a magical wonderland of fun. Giant red balls of all sizes adorned the ceiling, with a gold dance floor lying below them. This allowed patrons to see the balls in a hue of gold as well, depending on their perspective in the room.

As revelers took to their seats, they were treated to a delectable, multicourse meal courtesy of Chef Aaron Bludorn. The menu included a Burrata salad, wild mushroom ravioli, beef tenderloin, with a selection of a hazelnut tart or Citrus Vacherin for dessert. During the meal, they were treated to words from the event and organization thanking them for being a part of such a memorable evening.

Then came a grand highlight of the evening that took the event, fun, and energy to the next level. Co-chairs Cheryl Boblitt King and Bill King took to the gold dance floor along with Honorees Lisa and Jerry Simon in recognition of their tireless support of Memorial Hermann over the years. While on the floor, they were feted and surprised by a flash mob of various gala patrons and Memorial Hermann leaders to the Justin Timberlake classic song “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” bringing the crowd to their feet. On that high note, the entire crowd took to the dance floor to conclude the evening. Revelers were partying well into the night as they cut a rug to tunes by The New Millennials band, capping off a night for one of Houston’s most beloved and fun galas.

THE NON-PROFIT: The “Can’t Stop the Feeling” gala, co-chaired by Cheryl Boblitt King and Bill King, raised over $4 million for the Memorial Hermann Foundation. Proceeds raised from the event will be used to fund the Memorial Hermann Life Flight helicopter fleet. Each year, Life Flight engages in over 4,300 missions around the Houston area to provide emergency transportation for those who are experiencing critical medical emergencies.