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Cleveland Clinic’s annual Palm Beach Ball, held Saturday, February 21, exceeded expectations as the premier social and philanthropic event of the season. More than 500 guests attended the sold‑out black-tie event, which supported Cleveland Clinic’s plans to build a new hospital and expand outpatient services in West Palm Beach. The event featured a record-breaking paddle raise that generated $22 million to help fund the Emergency Department at the planned 200-bed hospital.
“The ability to deliver exceptional emergency care and complex outpatient and inpatient care close to where people live and work can be life‑changing,” said Conor Delaney, MD, president of Cleveland Clinic’s Florida Market. “This hospital represents a long‑term investment in the health and safety of Palm Beach County, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time, backed by Cleveland Clinic’s expertise.”
The evening began with an exclusive VIP reception, during which Tom Mihaljevic, MD, CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic and holder of the Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair, announced a $3 million gift from Eric and Lois Zorn. The gift will establish an endowed chair in cardiovascular medicine and honor Jerry Estep, MD, division chair of Cardiovascular Medicine for Cleveland Clinic Florida.
Guests then transitioned to the main ballroom for an engaging fireside chat with tennis legend Chris Evert. While sharing her powerful personal cancer journey and the lifesaving care she received at Cleveland Clinic’s Weston Hospital, she underscored the importance of expanding access to Cleveland Clinic’s world‑class care in West Palm Beach.
The program also featured remarks from Dr. Delaney, who highlighted recent achievements across Cleveland Clinic’s Florida hospitals and provided updates on the Palm Beach expansion plans.
The evening concluded with volunteer ambassadors Lynn Ross and Marie Unanue—champions of the Palm Beach expansion campaign – presiding over the highly successful record-breaking paddle raise.
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