MUHC’s Got Talent raises $420,000 for research and care

From guitar solos to lyrical adaptations, Montreal’s MTELUS was filled with enchanting performances Nov. 7 as health care professionals rocked the stage at their second annual MUHC’s Got Talent.

Modelled after the hit TV show, the fundraiser allows the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) community to showcase their talents out of the clinic.

The one-night event managed to raise $420,000 to support excellence in research and care at the MUHC.

“Our performers gave their all to support patient care and research at the MUHC,” said Tina Scalia, Co-Chair of the event, in a statement. “Getting up on stage and performing in front of an audience is no small feat.”

“Not only did they perform beautifully, but raised thousands of dollars for a good cause in the process,” she added. “I want to thank our donors and sponsors for their immense generosity.”

The evening featured ten acts full of soulful music and a capella.

“I am so proud to be part of this amazing event,” said Anna Dell’Api, MUHC’s Got Talent Co-Chair. “The talent of our performers is unbelievable.”

“We have a cardiologist who plays guitar, an a capella group made up of patients of the Lachine Hospital, a group of nurses from the MUHC and so many more amazing talents.”

“Everyone who joined us at MTELUS saw a suberb show,” added Dell’Api.

Following each performance, judges Catherine Verdon-Diamond, Jason Rockman and Mitsou gave their input, shown on screens through MTELUS.

“We enjoyed every performance and were awed by the passion we saw on stage,” said Verdon-Diamond. “Choosing our winners was a difficult decision.”

The judges selected the top three performers, who received cash prizes toward their causes.

The three Judges’ Choice winners are:

• First prize – $10,000 – Billie du Page in support of rare and genetic disease research
• Second prize – $6,000 – À la Carte in support of the revitalization of the Lachine Hospital
• Third prize – $4,000 – The Pillars in support of the recruitment and training of the MUHC’s talented nurses

“The opportunity to perform alongside my fellow nurses on a stage as famous as MTELUS was unbelievable,” said Carissa Wong, Advanced Practice Nurse, MUHC who performed with “The Pillars” choir.

“We are so proud to share our music.”

Every $1 donation = 1 vote.

At the end of the evening, votes were tallied and two final prizes were awarded:

• Fan Favourite – $15,000 – The Pillars in support of the recruitment and training of the MUHC’s talented nurses
• Fundraising Champion – $15,000 – Fatima Zahra Haouzi in support of cancer research

“I know that the members of our team are gifted in their fields and have different interests outside of work,” explained Dr. Lucie Opatrny, President and Executive Director, MUHC. “But what a nice surprise to see the variety of talent on display this evening.”

The evening, hosted by award-winning interviewer, Tarah Schwartz.

“Seeing so many health care professionals and friends of the MUHC Foundation get up on stage and share their talents,” said Marie-Hélène Laramée, President and CEO, MUHC Foundation. “Was incredibly inspiring.”