LeMSIC SCOME Fundraising Christmas Dinner opens up hearts in time for St. Nic
Wajiha Jurdi Kheir
Staff Writer
The Standing Committee on Medical Education (SCOME), part of the Lebanese Medical Students' International Committee (LeMSIC), held its annual Fundraising Christmas Dinner on Wednesday, December 22 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Hamra. With 300 medical students and doctors in attendance, this year's event brought the Christmas spirit to all, especially since the dinner would be benefiting a great cause.
Half the proceeds from the dinner will be donated to the Lebanese Down Syndrome Association. LDSA is an independent organization that strives to “build an inclusive society, which acknowledges the abilities of all people, particularly those with Down Syndrome, supports their needs, and encourages the achievement of their full potential for successful and happy lives, as individuals and as citizens.” The rest of the proceeds will go to SCOME as a means of supporting all the activities that it holds yearly.
The dinner began with an opening speech given by LeMSIC president Sara Hassan, during which she explained just how important LeMSIC is to both Medical students and to the community as a whole. Next to take the podium was the National Officer on Medical Education, Habiba Hassouna, who thanked attendees for coming and SCOMEdians for all the hard work they had put into the dinner. Finally, she thanked LDSA and especially LDSA helper ushers at the event that “have shown us that they are different, because we are all different.”
After the speeches, two movies were shown. One showcased all of SCOME's activities, which provide Medical students with what is missing from their curriculum like first aid sessions and USMLE orientations. The other was prepared by LDSA; it was a montage of Roger Sanchez's video called “Another Chance,” promoting us to open our hearts to our fellow man.
For the entertainment portion of the dinner, medical student jugglers from USJ pleased the attendees with some nifty tricks. Another USJ medical student sang Christmas songs while guests at the dinner finished up their four course meals.
When tickets to the dinner were sold, the option of sending a mug to a friend was given, and many people took that opportunity. Those mugs were diligently delivered by the SCOME Santa and his SCOMEdian helpers to many lucky attendees.
The final event planned before the dancing started was the tombola, which included many prizes such as dinners at Crepaway, a Samsung digital camera and photo frame as well as numerous spa treatments. It was a nice treat and a great way to close the dinner portion of the night.
By the time the dancing started, attendees had already got their hands full with mugs and prizes. That left them free to celebrate Christmas with their classmates and friends before parting for the vacation. The atmosphere was electric and signified a satisfying end to another successful SCOME Christmas Dinner. |