Ship Ahoy: Cleveland Clinic's deep pockets honored at dockside reception

How does one define a genuine Palm Beach philanthropist?

They give money even when there's no baby lamb chops at the end of the line.

So when the supporters of Cleveland Clinic Florida wrote the checks even when the gala was COVID-canceled, Katy and Leo Vecellio, who were to chair the gala with Annie and Michael Falk, decided to give those generous souls a proper thanks.

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The couple put down the gangway and welcomed the stalwarts to a cocktail reception aboard the their motor yacht Lady Kathryn V.

The event took place April 9 and included champagne, passed hors d'oeuvres and a pianist at the grand piano in the Main Salon.

Dr. Conor Delaney, CEO and president of Cleveland Clinic Florida, was on hand to speak with guests.

“Leo and I are proud to be a part of Cleveland Clinic Florida and support them for their medical breakthroughs and leading innovation in health care,” said Katy Vecellio. “We were excited to co-chair this year’s ball ... but, unfortunately, it was canceled due to the influx of COVID cases in South Florida. We are pleased to lift our glasses to all the people who still supported the gala. These donations have helped expand Cleveland Clinic Florida’s unique and exceptional medical services to more patients in South Florida that may require complex treatments and surgeries.”

More than 100 people attended.

Proceeds benefit Cleveland Clinic Florida, a nonprofit, multi-specialty health-care provider that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education.

The Florida region now includes Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, and Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, with five hospitals and numerous outpatient centers in Palm Beach, Broward, Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Centennial celebration reception hosted aboard M/Y Lady Kathryn V