In the heart of the North East community, beneath the shimmering disco ball, the Red Sky Ball 2024 unfolded as a radiant spectacle, weaving together glamour, generosity, and boundless possibilities.
As attendees stepped into the Beacon of Light, on Friday 22nd March 2024, they each left their own mark on what was a truly spectacular evening and made such a positive difference to the lives of those in need. Roughly 1000 guests attended Red Sky Foundation’s annual ball, which is an all-time high for this event.
As the festivities commenced, the Red Sky Ball unfolded as a charming tapestry of entertainment, fundraising, a delicious three-course meal served by Ramside Event Catering and the opportunity to take a look back on all of the special moments from the past year. Charlie Richmond, the host of the evening, announced sensational performances which dazzled the audience, including Hunni, who previously won The Voice UK in 2023, a.k.a. Jen & Liv, Ben Forster straight from the West End, Emily Haig Soprano and the amazing Ace Performers dancers.
Red Sky’s guests then also heard from Terry Archibold and his lovely daughter Beatrix, who received her long-awaited heart transplant last year after living on Ward 23 at the Freeman Hospital, in Newcastle. Attendees were able listen to Doctor Nassar, who is a surgeon on Ward 23, discuss how vital each penny raised is and the difference that it can make. Red Sky Foundation have pledged to purchase a brand new Xvivo machine for the NHS, specifically for the Freeman Hospital, which gives doctors and nurses hours longer to transport a heart from one patient to the next, by preserving the fundamental organ.
But amidst the glitz and glamour, the true essence of the Red Sky Ball shone through – the spirit of generosity and kindness. Throughout the evening, attendees came together to support Red Sky Foundation’s life-saving initiatives through various fundraising activities. The envelope raffle, live auction, defibrillator pledges, and silent auction became avenues for guests to contribute to their cause, raising vital funds to empower individuals and families facing the unthinkable.
One of the most memorable moments of the night came when the total amount raised was revealedan awe-inspiring £183,000. However, the generosity of a single guest propelled the fundraising total to an astounding £200,000, demonstrating the extraordinary impact that can be achieved when individuals unite together.
Sergio Petrucci, Founder & CEO of Red Sky Foundation said, “Wow that was a record breaker on so many levels, in fact it was the best ever Red Sky Ball since this story began! We couldn’t have wished for it to stick the plan anymore than it did, from the world class performances, the incredible food and most importantly, the most special people in the room joining us for the event at the Beacon of Light. On behalf of everyone involved in Red Sky Foundation, our trustees, our heart families, the doctors and nurses and all of the Red Sky Heart Heroes we are able to support, I would like to personally extend a huge THANK YOU to each and every one of you for making Red Sky Ball a smashing success! Your presence, generosity, and unwavering support truly made the evening one to remember.”
Beyond the numbers, the Red Sky Ball was a testament to the power of community and the ripple effect of kindness. It was a celebration of compassion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that together, we can create positive change in the communities and ultimately, the world.
Amidst the laughter and joy, there were moments of reflection and gratitude reminders of the profound impact of Red Sky Foundation’s work. Attendees were reminded that their support was not merely a donation but a lifeline for those in need, providing hope, resources, and compassion.
As the night drew to a close, guests departed with hearts full of warmth, memories, and a buzz to join the Red Sky team at next year’s event. The Red Sky Ball 2024 had not only been an evening of glamour and partying but a testament to the collective power of compassion and generosity.
In the aftermath of the event, the legacy of the Red Sky Ball 2024 lives ona beacon of hope and inspiration for the North East community and beyond.
redskyfoundation.com