The 2018 Hope Gala honoring Chuck and Claire Bowling at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino raised more than $1.3 million dollars on May 11, 2018 to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications.
This year Mario Basner showed his support for JDRF once again with his donation of a 34x60" Artist Proof of "Wealth", the multi award winning portrait of the George Peabody library in Baltimore on the grounds of Johns Hopkins University. This years winning bidder and 11 guest are treated to an exclusive sensory experience in the elegant artist's gallery in Tivoli Village. Welcomed with a champagne toast, followed by a guided tour of the internationally celebrated exhibition with the artist himself. The journey continues with an incredible Louis XIII cognac experience with the brand ambassador, completing the flavor palate with Carelian Caviar. This unforgettable feast for the senses raised Fifteen Thousand dollars for JDRF.
The crowd participated in record breaking silent and live auctions for the amounts raised. Bidding on items from a private dinner in your home with chefs Mary Sue Miliken and Susan Feniger from Border Grill to a one of a kind Ultimate Cirque Du Soleil VIP Experience that included a complete makeover with costume before taking part in dress rehearsal at one of the shows.