Dancing with the Docs has become one of Thunder Bay’s most anticipated fundraising events, and this year was no exception. The popular event sold out before tickets even went on sale.

Joining us in studio were event co-founders Patricia Del Paggio and Dr. Joseph Del Paggio, the brother-and-sister team behind the fundraiser.

The event was created six years ago in memory of their mother, who passed away from cancer.

“We wanted to do something special to honour her,” Patricia explained. “My brother being the doctor, and I was a drama teacher for many years. We combined our passions and created Dancing with the Docs as a way to give back to the community.”

This year’s event will take place at the Superior Inn, featuring local physicians paired with experienced dancers. Over several weeks, participants work closely with choreographers, rehearsing and perfecting routines before taking the stage.

“Some of the physicians have dance experience and some have very little,” said Dr. Del Paggio. “But over the course of weeks, they become phenomenal dancers.”

The event has grown so much that organizers introduced a new option this year: a live viewing party at Goods & Co. Market on November 21. Guests attending the viewing party will watch the event live, vote, participate in the excitement, and enjoy the same experience as attendees inside the ballroom.

The organizing team includes choreographer Carla Krupi, who helps pair dancers and physicians based on their strengths, and volunteer costume designer Elizabeth Buset, who creates costumes for the performers.

As for who might take home the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy, Patricia says the competition is wide open.

“I honestly don’t know who’s going to win this year. The dances are phenomenal. Everyone has really stepped up their game.”

Funds raised through Dancing with the Docs support cancer care initiatives in Thunder Bay. Previous years have funded diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. This year’s proceeds will help optimize radiation oncology care at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Although ballroom tickets are sold out, tickets remain available for the live viewing party through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation website under the Events section.

Tickets are $75 and include food, entertainment, and a front-row seat to one of the city’s most unique and inspiring fundraising events.

For more information or to purchase viewing party tickets click here: /https://l1nq.com/o5uxxr3

To hear the full interview on Country 105 click below.