The Rotary Club Luxembourg-Hearts is gearing up to mark its tenth anniversary with a Charity Masquerade Gala in support of pioneering research on paediatric brain cancer.

The event will take place at the Hôtel Le Royal in Luxembourg-Ville on Saturday 19 October 2024, from 18:00.

As reported by the organisers, this event invites everyone to come together to celebrate a decade of altruistic service while raising funds to support the Fondatioun Kriibskrank Kanner, which assists families of children affected by cancer. This year, the funds raised will specifically support scientific research on paediatric brain tumours.

The evening will feature a gourmet menu, lively music provided by a jazz band, as well as circus and magic performances. The night will conclude with a DJ to energise the dance floor.

Guest of honour, Luxembourg's Minister of Health, Martine Deprez, will be present to lend her support to the Fondatioun Kriibskrank Kanner and the cause of paediatric cancer research. The organisers noted that the minister's participation "underscores the importance of local efforts to enhance healthcare and support families in need".

During this event, guests will have the opportunity to acquire artworks specially created by the Franco-Luxembourgish artist Thomas Iser, known for the #UniversalHumanity project. This project showcases global icons such as Willem Dafoe, Gigi Hadid, Pharrell Williams and Katy Perry, focusing on the representation of humanity through photography and the use of the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi, "symbolising unity in diversity and beauty in imperfection". Participants will also have the opportunity to engage with the artist and explore his unique universe.  

Moreover, Matthieu Bracchetti, CEO of Virtual Rangers, will present a virtual reality game featuring Roudy, a small red lion who takes children on magical adventures during their hospital stays. This immersive experience, currently utilised at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL), helps reduce pain and anxiety, providing comfort to young patients. Participants can discover this immersive technology and hear Matthieu explain the emotional impact of this innovation on children battling illness.

"This Masquerade Gala for our tenth anniversary is much more than a celebration: it symbolises our collective commitment to making a difference. Every contribution is a step toward a better future for children with cancer," commented Anastasia Vanden Berghe, President of the Rotary Club Luxembourg-Hearts.

Minister Deprez emphasised: "Research is crucial to saving lives. Supporting it is essential to preventing childhood cancer and ensuring that every child has an equal chance of a bright future. This gala represents our collective commitment to advancing childhood cancer research and ensuring that every child receives the care and support they deserve".

Pierre Dochen, General Director of the Fondatioun Kriibskrank Kanner, added: "Every euro raised during this gala will be allocated to research on pediatric brain tumours, a priority area for Fight Kids Cancer. We warmly thank all participants and donors for their generosity."

The cost of attending this Charity Masquerade Gala is €180 per person. The price includes welcome drinks and appetisers, a three-course dinner with a vegetarian option, wine, live music and performances, a DJ set "and other surprises".

Attendance is limited; reservations are required by 6 October 2024. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.rotary-hearts-2160.org.