The MUHC Foundation’s Le Bal Rouge brought together some of Montreal’s most committed leaders in business, philanthropy, and health care for an evening of purpose, celebration, and hope. Held at the brand-new La Nesra in Griffintown, the event raised an impressive $2,106,445 in support of innovation at the McGill University Health Centre’s Glen site.
But this wasn’t just a gala. It was a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come—and to look ahead to what’s next.
This year’s Le Bal Rouge marked a decade since the opening of the Glen, and every detail of the evening—from the beautifully curated meal by chef Armando Arruda to the moving speeches—paid tribute to the hospital’s impact on patient care, research, and teaching.
“Tonight, we celebrate 10 years of impact, and thanks to our extraordinary community of donors and dedicated co-chairs, we are investing in the next 10 years of breakthroughs that will change and save lives across Quebec,” said Marie-Hélène Laramée, President and CEO of the MUHC Foundation.
“Your generosity is more than a gift—it’s a lifeline for transformative medical innovation. This is just the beginning,” she added.
Funds raised will support priority needs at the Glen site—where researchers and clinicians are pushing the limits of what’s possible in medicine. From bioprinting lung tissue to testing cancer therapies on lab-grown tumors, the MUHC is leading change that has the power to improve and save lives, both here in Quebec and far beyond.
The night’s success was driven in large part by the leadership of this year’s co-chairs.
“It’s an honour to support the MUHC’s Glen site, where science, compassion and technology come together to create one of the best hospital environments in the world. This is a cause that touches every Quebecer—and the incredible outcome tonight reflects the undeniable strength of our community,” said Stéphanie Vaillancourt, President, Canada, AtkinsRéalis.
Her words set the tone for the evening—a testament to the vital role the Glen plays in the lives of Quebecers.
“At Desjardins, we believe deeply in investing in innovation. It’s investing in people, in patients, in their families, and in a healthier future for all, “said Guy Cormier, President and CEO, Desjardins Group. “It’s inspiring to see the community come together to support the transformative work being done at the MUHC. I have no doubt that the funds raised tonight will drive the next chapter of medical innovation that will position Quebec as a global leader in the field.”
His message echoed the pride and purpose felt by everyone in the room.
“The Glen site is where the impossible becomes possible. It’s deeply moving to be part of an event that celebrates what we’ve achieved and fuels what’s to come. This is such an important moment for Quebecers, who not only showed up tonight but are actively helping us build a healthier future for all,” shares Ani Rouleau, Founder and CEO, The Unscented Company.
Together, the co-chairs helped shine a spotlight on the innovation, collaboration, and compassion that define the Glen.
The MUHC’s Glen site was built to change the future of health care in Quebec. Since opening its doors, it has become a hub for collaboration, cutting-edge research, and life-saving care.
“Ten years ago, we built the MUHC’s Glen site to increase opportunities that would help us transform patient care, research and teaching,” said Dr. Lucie Opatrny, President and Executive Director of the MUHC. “This year’s Le Bal Rouge will serve as a catalyst for the next decade of excellence and innovation in health care. The MUHC sees what is possible today as a call to action to push the boundaries of knowledge, drive best-in-class practices and deliver new hope for managing complex and rare diseases. To the MUHC Foundation, our dedicated partners and our generous community of donors—thank you for empowering us.”
Since its inception in 2016, Le Bal Rouge has raised more than $10.85M to support cutting-edge advancements across all areas of care at the MUHC. That support is already shaping the future—and thanks to this year’s gala, the momentum continues.
