On May 20, families gathered outside the Donor Pavilion to remember those who they have loved and lost.

Ceremonies to launch the BioBridge Global Memorial Garden included both staff and families who prepared memorial stones for the departed, as well as a ceremonial watering and the unveiling of a memorial bench.

Coordinated by Susan Smith, the BBG Memorial Garden is a memorial to those who have died and a place for the grieving to find comfort. It is adjacent to the Donor Pavilion, open to the public, and the anyone is welcome to add memorials to their loved ones.

The dedication began with individuals sharing their late loved ones’ stories, prompting hugs between strangers and establishing a connection among the group.

The families then wrote messages to their loved ones on rocks to be placed in the garden. While some featured Bible verses and others were adorned with drawings, they all showcased extensive love for those they commemorated.

The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation, a subsidiary of the nonprofit biomedical company BioBridge Global, is thrilled to announce the details of its annual marquee fundraising event, the Red and White Ball. The black-tie gala will be Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Marriott Rivercenter, 101 Bowie St. A cocktail reception begins at 6:30 p.m., and dinner and dancing begin at 7:30 p.m.

Ginny and Art Bennert are the co-chairs of the 2017 ball.

The event, which began in 2004, helps increase awareness in the community and raise money for the patient services, research and therapy programs of BioBridge Global. Proceeds from this year’s Red and White Ball will be directed to GenCure programs supporting the collection of lifesaving umbilical cord blood donations.