Crystal Ball: A History of Philanthropic Support

Twenty nine years ago, an elegant affaire designed to recognize hospital donors was held on the roof of the north parking structure at Methodist Hospital. With its popularity increasing, the Crystal Ball, now a fundraising event, has become “the” social event of the San Gabriel Valley. Throughout its twenty eight year history it has generated approximately $9.2 million dollars to support such programs as the Expansion of our Comprehensive Stroke and Endovascular Services, Women’s Health, the Rehabilitation Unit Campaign, Cardiac, Stroke, Emergency Services, and the Next Generation of Care Campus Transformation at Methodist Hospital. The event has featured headline entertainers such as Paul Anka, Kenny Loggins, The Beach Boys, Smokey Robinson, Natalie Cole, and most recently, Foreigner.

At Crystal Ball 2018 “An Evening with Foreigner” guests who gathered at the Pasadena Convention Center to enjoy an evening of fine dining, exciting auctions and wonderful entertainment. The event, co-chaired by Patty Nijjar and Susan Woo, raised $607,000 in net proceeds to support endovascular services and interventional radiology at Methodist Hospital.

On October 12^th, Methodist Hospital Foundation will hold the 30^th Celebration of Crystal Ball, “Celebrate Good Times with Kool & the Gang”. We will honor Mike and Patty Nijjar for their many years of support of Methodist Hospital. Proceeds will help secure the addition of a second bi-plane imaging system, which will enhance Methodist Hospital’s ability to serve the greater San Gabriel Valley as a fully-accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center and STEMI Receiving Center. With the leadership of event co-chairs Aner and Rebecca Iglesias and Shone and Sherry Wang, this promises to be a successful fundraiser and friend-raiser for Methodist Hospital. For additional information, contact Methodist Hospital Foundation at (626) 898-8888 or email: crystalball@methodisthospital.org.