You may have heard about the nearly 100 pieces of artwork, or “faces,” that were recently on display at Bellevue Square. These pieces were created by prominent artists and community leaders to celebrate the thousands of volunteers who donate their time to help Puget Sound Blood Center to save lives.

The exhibit is a precursor to the Blood Center’s premier fundraising gala dinner-auction, Faces for Life. On March 15, the exclusive event raised approximately $400,000 for the new Thrombosis Research Center. Dignitaries in the crowd included former Sonics star Lenny Wilkens, community leader Susan Hutchison, and local artist Brian Major. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and classical guitar by Andre Feriante during the silent auction. Then they assembled in the ballroom for a gourmet meal and live entertainment by the UW cheerleaders and Theresa Carnovale & City Life.

One of the event’s highlights came during the “Raise the Paddle” segment. Blood Center Executive Vice President, Research, José López, M.D., described his work with thrombosis, unwanted blood clotting that results in heart attacks and strokes. After his talk, Erin Ball presented Dr. López with a $50,000 gift on behalf of the Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation to help establish the new research center.

President and CEO of Puget Sound Blood Center, Richard B. Counts, M.D., spoke onstage for his last Faces for Life as the leader of the organization before retiring in August. “The mission of the Blood Center is fairly direct,” said Dr. Counts. “We provide blood, tissue and medical services – and they are self-supporting. But we also conduct research, and that research relies on grants and gifts, which is why we are here tonight.”

In recognition of the event’s success, the Blood Center gives special thanks to co-chairs Mitzi Carletti and Martha Woodworth, the Faces for Life committee, participating artists, and our many Faces for Life sponsors, especially our major sponsors Bellevue Square, Puget Sound Energy Foundation, and Titan Worldwide.