The Crystal Gala Foundation's latest $130,000 donation will be used to purchase a breast ultrasound machine to speed detection and diagnosis at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre (ARHCC).

Gerri Charles, chair of the Crystal Gala committee - which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year - said the technology is destined for the Crystal Gala Breast Health Unit and means 15 additional patients can be screened each day.

"That's a really big deal," said Charles.

"It means a quicker diagnosis, better care and a quicker return to health and that goes to our core mandate."

The goal is to navigate patients through necessary testing within a 21-day period, added Charles. The announcement was made Friday night during a reception to thank the Crystal Gala's generous sponsors and donors - many of whom have been loyal to the cause since the start.

Because of them, the Crystal Gala is a mere $70,000 shy of its $1 million fundraising commitment to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation (FVHCF), said Charles.

"We've been so lucky. We've had 15 years of people committing to one cause, and that's because they trust us and we're really clear about where that money's going."

The Crystal Gala committee, which is made up of 10 working mothers who volunteer their time, doesn't have any administration costs, noted Charles.

The Crystal Gala Foundation also used the donor reception to announce the theme of its anniversary event to be held in October at the Ramada Plaza and Conference Centre. It's fitting that the foundation - as would a couple after 15 years together - will be celebrating its "crystal anniversary", said Charles, adding the gala will be a glittery, sophisticated and icy affair.

- For more information, visit www.crystalgala.com.