We Enjoyed Another Gala Evening at the Alcron

ČSH

The event called the Gala Evening of the Czech Hemophilia Society and Hemojunior celebrated a lovely half-round anniversary. Perhaps even Katka Altmanova, who is the central figure behind the organisation of this event, did not believe it would see its fifth birthday. And given how well all the previous editions turned out, one can only wish her to reach the round anniversary. As the opening lines suggest, it was once again a very successful evening. There were more guests than originally anticipated, and the space where everything took place had to be reorganised. Those who were particularly looking forward to the delicacies of head chef Roman Paulus were greatly surprised to find no tables for the traditional buffets in the hall. They no longer fitted, and additional tables had to be added. But we did not miss out on the anticipated treats, as they were newly set up in the anteroom.

However, we only got to the treats and dancing to musical accompaniment by Teri Stepanova after the opening remarks by Simona Svobodova and Michal Skorepa, who recapped the activities of both organisations over the past year and thanked not only their members, but especially our treating haematologists and sponsors, without whose financial support there would be little to recap. Thanks were also due to the representatives of the Alcron Hotel, who traditionally accommodated us. The phrase "accommodated us" does not merely mean that they allowed us to hold the event there, but above all the conditions they offered, which place this hotel in the role of a significant sponsor.

As the photographs suggest, everything proceeded in the true spirit of a social gathering. Everyone had fun; even those whose health allows them to dance only in a limited way tried their best. There was also a rich raffle in which almost everyone won, and the surprise of the evening was provided this time by Stepan Srsen on drums.

Unfortunately, around 11 pm came the traditional sour note -- the end of the festivities and time to leave. Some headed home, others to their arranged accommodation, and the more persistent ones to a "follow-up venue."

We would like to conclude this look back at the 5th Gala Evening with one more expression of thanks -- to the Luziny Brewery, the wine bar of Roman Poertes, and everyone who contributed to organising the event with the belief that this tradition will continue for many more years.

Michal Skorepa