Miracle Gala sets fundraising record

The Miracle Gala benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Gundersen set a new record in 2023, raising more than $102,000. The sold-out event was held April 14 in the Cargill Room, returning after a three-year hiatus.  

Attendees met CMN Hospitals’ 2023 Heroes – five local kids and their families who act as ambassadors for CMN Hospitals throughout the year, while also learning about the ways donors can support local children on their medical journeys.  

“It was so exciting to have our Heroes and supporters all in the same room celebrating local miracles,” said Sierra Lyon, a CMN Hospitals Specialist at Gundersen. “We are so grateful for the generosity of our community to change kids’ health. We’d like to thank our donors and sponsors for helping us set a new fundraising record at the Miracle Gala and for helping us make miracles happen for local families.” 

The gala featured the debut of our 2023 Hero video, where attendees got to hear the Heroes’ stories.

The Miracle Gala featured the return of the beloved dessert auction, featuring 21 desserts donated by area bakers, and a child art auction featuring masterpieces by the Heroes. The Fund-A-Miracle auction encouraged attendees to contribute to fund adaptive equipment and other CMN Hospitals’ services that help children gain some independence and focus on being kids.  

The Miracle Gala’s masters of ceremonies were WXOW News 19 anchor Dustin Luecke and Jedi Schaller, a 2022 Hero and cancer survivor. WXOW was also honored with CMN Hospitals’ Miracle Achievement Award for its 37-year partnership and support of CMN Hospitals.