In September 2001, Canadian tenor Michael Schade hosted his first fundraising concert – “Michael Schade and Friends Sing for Leukemia Research”. Michael is a personal supporter of leukemia research because it saved his mother’s life. He developed a strong connection to McMaster’s Blood Disorder Clinic where his mother received her life-saving treatment and has worked diligently to support their research activities ever since.
Michael was joined on stage for a night of spectacular singing by baritone Russell Braun, soprano Sondra Radvanovsky, mezzo-soprano Norine Burgess, soprano Monica Whicher, The Victoria Scholars and pianists Stephen Ralls and Bruce Ubukata. The gala evening was hosted by the Canadian Opera Company’s Director, the late Richard Bradshaw.
The concert raised $60,000, an amount which was matched by a private donor to an evening total of $120,000. This allowed McMaster to purchase a Real Time Image Analysis Station with Florescent Microscope, a highly specialized piece of equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders.
As part of the Organizing Committee, MJC was instrumental in developing the concept for and promoting the event, providing logistical support, and collaborating with McMaster University.
