Ron MacLean Co-Hosts Heart of Gold Gala in Victoria on Aug. 23

Renowned broadcaster Ron MacLean will co-host the Simon Keith Heart of Gold Gala on August 23, 2023, at the Victoria Conference Centre. This inaugural Canadian event organized by the Simon Keith Foundation aims to gather over 600 attendees to support children in need of life-saving organ transplants and promote organ donation awareness.

MacLean, best known as the host of Hockey Night in Canada, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, recalling how Simon Keith reached out to him shortly after the Vegas Golden Knights won the 2023 Stanley Cup. “To be honest, it’s hard to say no to Simon Keith,” MacLean stated, highlighting the personal connection he feels towards the cause.

The foundation, established by Keith in 2012, has successfully raised more than $10 million to aid children undergoing critical medical procedures. Keith, who grew up in Saanich, has a compelling personal story. At the age of 19, while playing soccer at the University of Victoria, he was diagnosed with myocarditis, a heart condition that ultimately led to open-heart surgery in England two years later. Remarkably, he became the first athlete to play a professional team sport following such surgery and has since dedicated his life to advocacy.

MacLean praised Keith’s dedication, stating, “When he does something, he goes all in. He’s just one of those guys who dreams everything into reality.” The gala will feature a stellar lineup of performers, including internationally acclaimed vocalist Vonzell Solomon, emotive singer Matt Mauser, and dynamic powerhouse Pia Toscano. MacLean noted Toscano’s unique connection to hockey, recalling that she sang the national anthem for the Los Angeles Kings during their Stanley Cup victories in 2012 and 2014.

In addition to the event’s exciting entertainment, Keith’s network includes influential figures such as Jeff Mallett, co-owner of the Vancouver Whitecaps, and connections to the Courtnall Foundation. MacLean remarked on the impact of these relationships, stating, “When I think of people who have made positive impacts and given back, Simon and the Courtnall brothers are at the top of that list.”

For MacLean, the gala holds personal significance. He spent part of his childhood in Victoria while his father served in the Air Force and has returned for significant events, including the 1994 Commonwealth Games. He described being part of the gala as “more of an honour than a thrill,” emphasizing the importance of Victoria in his life and career.

As the Heart of Gold Gala approaches, anticipation builds for an evening dedicated to raising awareness and funds for a cause that profoundly impacts the lives of children in need. The collaboration of MacLean, Keith, and a host of talented performers promises to create a memorable and meaningful event.