Lessons Learned from the David Foster Foundation Miracle Gala

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to attend the David Foster Foundation Miracle Concert this past Saturday night at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Arena in Victoria, B.C. I had thought I was in for a night of beautiful music.  However, I didn’t expect to be blown away by an experience that has changed my life.

Let me explain. I found out a while ago that the David Foster Foundation was having a concert to support his charity.  I have known about David Foster and the work that he has done (professionally and philanthropically) and wanted to support this cause.  All proceeds from the Foundation go to support the families of children needing organ transplants and education surrounding organ donor registration in Canada and the US. Since I have a good friend who has had two life-saving organ transplants, this cause is really important to me.  When one member of the family is really ill, everyone is affected, as the illness will take its toll on the others too.  Check out press coverage of the event below.

Therefore, I was happy to go and show my support for this wonderful cause.  You should too! The description of this event said that David would be bringing “his friends” for an unforgettable concert. He brought his friends – more like a troop of amazing people who have achieved outstanding things.  It was such a surreal experience, that when I went home I posted on my Facebook status “Did this just happen? I must have been dreaming?”

When in your life do you get to be in a small arena with the likes of David Foster, Wayne Gretzky, Muhammed Ali, Rick Hansen, Josh Groban, Ben Mulroney, B.C.’s Lieutenant- Governor,  Sarah MacLachlan, the Canadian Tenors, Sinbad, Olympic Athletes, and many other influential people from Canada and around the world?  Almost 6000 enthusiastic supporters from all walks of life and of all ages attended this fundraising concert.  

Not only that, I was also shown how much of an impact people can make when they come together for a common goal.  Over $4.5 million dollars were raised for the charity that night. So many lives will be changed in a positive way from this outreach.

Hallelujah! The song which Sarah MacLachlan and the Canadian Tenors sang is an appropriate song choice here.

I learned that if you work hard, follow your dreams, and surround yourself with a positive network – you can achieve amazing things!I also learned that it’s important to share your story and connect with others.  I tweeted the Canadian Tenors and they responded by sharing my message with all the fans.

@TenorsMusic You guys blew me away with your beautiful voices last night at the @DavidFosterFDN Gala!!! Incredible Job!!!! :)

— Arianna (@arianna_merritt) May 27, 2012

Don’t Give Up!!! Even if you are sick with laryngitis like Josh Groban was that night, persist - and work hard towards your goal.  He played the song "You Raise Me Up" to end the show.  It is such a beautiful and inspring song that I will use it to end my post.

Thank you all at the Gala for reminding me of this! Even though I didn’t meet any of the celebrities, being present at the concert and witnessing their hard work helping others has really impacted my life.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead.

Thank you for reading and your presence at this beach retreat. You Rock! I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.

See you at the beach!