As Grady Health System celebrates the 125^th anniversary of its opening in 1892, the annual White Coat Grady Gala will offer attendees the opportunity to celebrate the physicians, patients and patrons who have contributed to the hospital’s storied history.

Over 800 guests, including the region’s top business and community leaders are scheduled to attend the event on Saturday, March 18, at the Georgia Aquarium.  In its 7^th year, the black-tie evening is being chaired by UPS Chairman and CEO David Abney and his wife, Sherry, and PNC Bank Regional President Eddie Meyers and his wife, Jan. 

“We continue to be overwhelmed by the level of support the White Coat Grady Gala receives from the region’s business and philanthropic communities,” commented Grady Health Foundation President Renay Blumenthal.  “What started as an idea to build support only a few years ago has become not only an extremely successful fundraising event, but also truly special and unique opportunity to tell the stories of Grady through the voices of our doctors and patients.”

In celebration of the hospital’s 125^th anniversary, a group of seven living legends, each of whom have been actively practicing medicine at Grady for over 40 years, will be honored with the Grady Health Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award. 

“Not only have these physicians collectively treated thousands of patients, they have helped to train generations of doctors during their time at Grady,” added Blumenthal.  “We could not think of a better way to mark our anniversary than by honoring those who have contributed so meaningfully both to our health system and to their profession.” 

Those receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award include:

• Al Brann - Professor of Pediatrics for Reproductive Health and Perinatal Care, Director, Emory School of Medicine, Global Collaborating Center in Reproductive Health, Woodruff Health Sciences Center of Emory University

• Joel Felner - Associate Dean, Clinical Education, and Professor of Medicine, Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine

• Michael Lubin - Professor of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine

• Sidney Stein - Chief of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Grady Health System

• William E. Torres - Vice Chairman, Clinical Affairs and Chief, Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine

• H. Kenneth Walker - Professor of Medicine and Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine; Executive Director of Partners for International Development

• Nanette Wenger - Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine