Rays of Sunshine raises more than £370,000 in incredible “Real Estate and Private Equity” industry dinner, to grant more magical wishes for seriously and terminally ill children

Rays of Sunshine is delighted to announce its fundraising dinner for professionals in the property and private equity industries raised over £370,000 to help grant more magical wishes for seriously and terminally ill children in the UK.  

The event took place at the world-renowned Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge, London. More than 120 supporters came together to celebrate the magic Rays of Sunshine brings to the lives of seriously ill children and their families.  

Rays of Sunshine co-founder and trustee Mark Shipman opened the night with a passionate speech about the importance of the charity’s work, followed by a performance from the Sunshine Choir, singing “Here Come the Sun”.  

This was underpinned by a moving speech later by Dave Lunn, father of the late Joe Lunn, whose wish Rays of Sunshine granted six years ago. Knowing how much Joe loved all things sports, his Rays of Sunshine wish sent him to New York to watch his favourite NFL team, the New York Giants.  

The night also included guest speakers Sir Sajid Javid and Lord Richard Harrington, as well as an auction hosted by celebrated auctioneer Charlie Ross.  

There were a number of incredible lots to be won, including an original Damien Hirst artwork kindly gifted by McKay Williamson, a one-of-a-kind Star Wars Stormtrooper helmet gifted by JJ Abrams, and many other once-in-a-lifetime VIP experiences. 

Amy Chambers, CEO of Rays of Sunshine, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening, so that we can continue to brighten the lives of seriously ill children when they need it most.  

“Thank you to all those who have taken out ads in our brochure, our drinks sponsor Cynergy Bank, our auction donors, and auction winners and everyone who attended and gave so generously. Thanks also Mark Shipman who made the night possible along with his committee, and to our brilliant Rays of Sunshine staff and trustees, who put in so much work behind the scenes.  

“The evening, and the magic Rays of Sunshine makes on a daily basis, wouldn’t be possible without you.” 

Mark Shipman, co-founder of Rays of Sunshine and trustee, said: “For 22 years, Rays of Sunshine has existed to bring light to the darkest times of a family’s life.

“Thanks to the generous attendees of our property and private equity industry dinner, we can ensure our vital work can continue for many years to come.” 

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