Maria Arcega-Dunn, Fox 13 News

Spring for Life
Swirling skirts and colorful scarves were the trend at the Spring for Life gala in March. Thanks to generous sponsors, guests, and volunteers the Blood Center raised $200,000 for thrombosis research at the bi-annual gala.

Guests arrived dressed to the nines and bid generously on silent auction items. Once the auction closed a gourmet dinner was served and an evening of dancing commenced.

Marnie Roozen, event chair, had the audience riveted with her charming humor and her heartbreaking personal story. Marnie suffered a stroke while overseas visiting her daughter. No one guessed that such a vibrant, young woman could have a stroke. Thankfully, Marnie recovered fully and is now a strong advocate for the Blood Center’s Center for Thrombosis Research. And at Spring for Life, she made advocates of every person in the ballroom.

Maria Arcega-Dunn, Fox 13 News Anchor, emceed the event and shared her own personal story about thrombosis. “I’m not out there doing the news tonight. I’m here because thrombosis has affected my family too.” Thrombosis is unwanted blood clotting and is the leading cause of heart attack and stroke. It affects each and every one of us. Through this event, generous supporters invested in cutting edge research to help scientists better understand the properties of blood clotting. Together, we will find a cure for thrombosis. Maybe not today, but there is always tomorrow.

2009 Hope Uncorked! A Truly Tasteful Event
Puget Sound Blood Center’s inaugural wine tasting, Hope Uncorked!, was a big success. Thanks to the guests, volunteers, and generous wineries who donated their wine and their time, the event exceeded expectations and raised more than $17,000 for the Blood Center’s new Center for Thrombosis Research. Especially generous was Kathleen Summers, the event chair, who gave much of her time and resources to ensure a winning event.

Nearly 100 guests attended the wine tasting and silent auction at Bear Creek Country Club. Presenting wineries included Brian Carter Cellars, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Harlequin Cellars, Hollywood Hills Winery, and O Wines. Planning has already begun for next year’s event.