Celebrating 13 years of saving lives, the Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL) hosted its annual fundraising gala dinner this year at Pavillon Royal - Biel, on Thursday, December 3, 2015.

Considered as the most significant fundraiser organized by the center, this event - which was very exclusive this year - was attended by more than 600 of the country’s officials and influential figures, amongst which the deputy minister and defense Minister of Lebanon Samir Mokbel, Leader of the Progressive Socialist Party Walid Joumblatt, Member of Parliaments Michel Moussa, and Jean Ogassapian and Ministers Wael Abou Faour, Raymond Areiji and Mohamad Machnoukand Mrs. Lama Tamam Salam. As well the presence of Prime Ministers Raymond Audi, Marwan Charbel, Ibrahim Najjar, Nazem Khoury, Frej Sabounjian and Gabriele Caccia, the Papal Ambassador to Lebanon, HRH Princess Ghida Talal and many other public figures and influencers.

The dinner took place at the Pavillon Royal BIEL, in a grandiose wintery setting, which fascinated the guests, all beautifully dressed to celebrate this much-awaited annual event. It’s noteworthy that all setup and preparations for this gala dinner is mostly offered by loyal supporters of the CCCL.

The evening launched with the Antonine Choir singing the Lebanese National Anthem in a wonderful way, adding to this evening a more elegant and special touch. MC Jessica Kahawatywelcomed the guests who were then moved by a special performance by the CCCL kids joining the Antonine Choir with the song “Laylit Eid”.

Mrs. Salwa Salman, CCCL Chair then gave her speech welcoming guests and thanking them for their loyalty and valued contributions to the center. In her speech, Mrs. Salmanannounced that her 3 years tenure as the chair of the CCCL has come to an end and she leaves the position to Mrs. Nora Joumblatt, the CCCL new Chair.

One of the highlights of this wonderful evening was Mounir who gave a personal testimony. Mounir, a young talented musician, recently won his battle over cancer at the CCCL which helped realize his dream of recording one of his own compositions. After his testimony, Mounir performed his composition “Path of Hope” in front of all guests who were all ears and emotions, enjoying it.

A clip was played highlighting the CCCL’s latest achievements and challenges and guests enjoyed dinner to the sounds of DJ Mitri and an enchanting performance by Aziza and her big band.