INTERVIEW
A few questions for … Marypat Friedman and Sue Brueckner Interview by Bill Dougherty What sets the Honor Ball apart from other events? Marypat: The Honor Ball has a storied history as one of the premier black tie events in the Valley. The focus is on fun! There are no auctions, just an inviting evening with good friends and wonderful entertainment in one of the grandest settings in town. Where do the funds raised from the evening go? Sue: The purpose of The Honor Ball has been to fund HonorHealth (formerly Scottsdale Healthcare) projects, services and programs that will directly benefit the people in our community – our friends, families and neighbors. More than $14 million has been raised to benefit these programs. All proceeds from this year’s Honor Ball will go directly to support research, programs and services. What does The Honor Ball mean to you? Sue: The Honor Ball enjoys the reputation of being a great event for a great cause. My husband, Kurt, and I have lived and been involved in the Scottsdale community for more than 30 years. While spending my entire professional career in the medical field, I have always had a special place in my heart for the hope and outstanding care that HonorHealth and the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center offer to patients and family members. When asked to co-chair this wonderful event I knew this would be very special as my mother was treated at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center with the most amazing care and compassion. Marypat: My husband, Dr. Jay Friedman, and I have been a part of this medical
community for more than 30 years. This year’s proceeds will support cancer patient services, education and research offered through the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center and HonorHealth Research Institute. A bridge connects them which represents the collaboration between care and cure. I am so proud to co-chair this event, which, through the efforts of our amazing committee, offers hope to so many. What is the theme for the ball this year? Sue: While we don’t have a designated theme, we are delighted with our décor and color scheme. We will continue the tradition of honoring someone who has made a difference in our community. We are thrilled to recognize Tom Sadvary, HonorHealth Chief Executive Officer, as the 2017 honoree for all his leadership. Anything our readers should know about this event that makes it so very successful year after year? Marypat: We are so grateful for the past 40+ years of support for The Honor Ball from physicians and community leaders. Their passion and commitment to the HonorHealth patients and families of the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center really speaks to the enduring success of the Ball.
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