What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian's Quest for Healing and Hope

By Dr. Kwane Stewart, CNN's Hero of the Year for 2023.

Mountains Beyond Mountains meets Tattoos On the Heart in this unforgettable, powerful, and stunningly-told memoir of a struggling veterinarian saving animals and humans on the streets of California - and how he discovered what bonds all living creatures.

Dr. Kwane Stewart was questioning his career as a veterinarian when he saw a homeless man with a flea-infested dog outside of a convenience store. In a moment of spontaneous generosity, he offered to examine the dog and treat him for free. It was the first step in a now nine-year journey that has taken Dr. Kwane from Skid Row to San Francisco and beyond to care for pets and their humans who are living on the streets.

In What It Takes to Save a Life, Dr. Kwane shows how our four-legged, feathered, scaled, and swimming family members-these dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and other animals that live side by side with us-provide more than companionship. They offer essential love, hope, and a sense of security.

Written with striking honesty and rich detail, Dr. Kwane looks back on his childhood, how he discovered his appreciation for animals and his calling, and offers a frank assessment of the state of veterinary medicine today, where compassion fatigue, burnout, and suicide are facts of life. Full of warm and inspiring stories of human-animal relationships, this powerful and eye-opening book is a reminder that we are all members of a wider family. It is also a clarion call for each of us to help those in need-especially our most vulnerable brothers and sisters-and the animals who are their families. Wise and warm, Dr. Stewart's story is a reminder that one life can make an immeasurable difference.

Books will be available at Gala.

In the event purchaser does not attend Gala, purchaser is responsible for pickup.

3-NIGHT VEGAS OR
TAHOE FOR TWO

Indulge in an enchanting three-night
getaway for two, where you can choose
between the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the excitement of Las Vegas. This exclusive package offers a memorable escape, whether you seek relaxation by crystal-clear waters or thrilling entertainment in the city that never sleeps.

Only 2 available!

Detailed instructions will be included on the issued certificate.

Valid for a variety of dates throughout the year.

Subject to availability when you book. There will be less availability on peak dates.

The primary traveler must be at least 21 years old.

Paid upgrades and extended dates may be available when you book. Reservations must be booked at least 90 days in advance.

Travel must be booked within 12 months and completed within 24 months.

All bookings are non-cancellable, non-modifiable (i.e., changes to travelers and dates), and non-transferrable.

Some resorts charge local taxes at check-in, as well as a refundable deposit upon arrival. Additionally, some hotels charge a resort fee due at the hotel.

Certain optional amenities, such as parking, may require an additional fee at the property.

The estimate of taxes and fees will be
disclosed while you are submitting your booking request.

The same traveler cannot buy multiple of the same certificate and redeem them for
a single reservation.

Airfare, transfers, and activities are not included unless specifically listed under Trip Details.

7 Nights in Majestic Colorado

Embark on a week-long mountain retreat with this 7 nights vacation accommodating 4 guests in a studio or 1-bedroom resort condominium. Choose from a selection of Colorado hotels in the picturesque destinations of Vail, Avon, Winter Park, or Breckenridge, each known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and charming alpine ambiance. Whether you seek the sophistication of Vail, the tranquility of Avon, the scenic beauty of Winter Park, or the vibrant energy of Breckenridge, this package promises a comfortable and memorable stay. Revel in the majestic surroundings, explore outdoor adventures, and create lasting memories with loved ones in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

• 7 nights for 4 Guests in a Studio or 1 Bedroom Resort condominium
• Your Choice of select Colorado hotels in Vail, Avon, Winter Park or Breckenridge

You have a full 3 years, starting on the date of your auction/event, or travel store purchase, to complete your travel. Due to uncertainty of accommodation costs for this extended period, travel during the 3rd year may be subject to an additional cost not to exceed $599.00. Travelers may select from multiple resorts in the destination(s) listed on the package display, including the featured resort(s).

Accommodations are studio or 1-bedroom resort condominium units for up to 4 guests (2a/2c recommended). You may travel yourself, or give the package to someone else, free of charge after registration, if your package has not been booked. You may register the package at any time within the 3-year travel period as registration is not required, but we strongly recommend registering your package to view available resorts and dates.

Accommodations are for consecutive night stays only, and may not be broken up. Larger accommodations for up to 6 guests may be available. Surcharges may apply.

The Inventory Selection System will be accessible to view and select available resorts and arrival dates upon completion of the package registration. Resorts and arrival date options are generally displayed for selection from 90-300 days in advance of the arrival date.

Reservations must be requested at least 90 days prior to the selected arrival date. No changes of any kind can be made for any reason to a confirmed reservation. This includes traveler name, travel dates, resort, or unit size. We strongly recommend that travelers protect their total investment with appropriate travel insurance coverage. Many excellent insurance providers can be found with an online search of "Travel Insurance". This package is valid year-round. Peak season travel dates are subject to availability. Surcharges may apply. All resorts and dates, including featured resorts, are subject to availability. This package does not include airfare, meals, taxes, personal expenses, and any fees (including resort and amenities fees) that are only payable at the property. Other conditions may apply.

Cabin Choice Adventure for 4

Experience a 3-night stay in your choice of cabin resorts across the US and Canada. From the misty Smoky Mountains to the tranquil Ozarks and majestic Rockies, every destination offers breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable moments.

Enjoy spacious cabins designed for families and small groups, featuring two bedrooms or one bedroom and a loft that comfortably accommodates up to 4 guests. Use the included $500 gift card to enhance your experience-whether it's savoring local dining or diving into thrilling activities.

Picture stargazing from your private deck, toasting marshmallows by the fire, or embarking on exhilarating outdoor exploration-this is more than a vacation; it's a canvas for your most cherished moments with the people you love. Your nature adventure starts now-where will it take you?

• 3-night stay in your choice of cabin resorts across the US and Canada, including the Smokies, Ozarks, Rockies, and more
• Cabin with 2 bedrooms or a downstairs bedroom and upstairs loft, accommodating at least 4 adults
• $500 gift card for resort use or dining
• Option to upgrade accommodations, extend your stay, or add travelers for an additional fee at redemption
• Booking and concierge services

Detailed instructions will be included on the issued certificate.

Valid for a variety of dates throughout the year.

Subject to availability when you book.

There is a wide variety of cabins available for this package. The cabin's availability depends on the check-in date. There are typically more options available outside of peak season and during weeknights.

Cabins may differ from marketing images.

The primary traveler must be at least 21 years old.

Paid upgrades and extended dates may be available when you book.

Reservations must be booked at least 90 days in advance. Travel must be booked within 12 months and completed within 24 months. All bookings are non-cancellable, non-modifiable (i.e., changes to travelers and dates), and non-transferrable.

The same traveler cannot buy multiple of the same certificate and redeem them for a single reservation.

Airfare, transfers, meals and activities are not included unless specifically listed under Trip Details.

Scottsdale for 3 Nights

Embrace the beauty of the Southwest with a 3-night stay in your choice of Scottsdale, Tucson, Phoenix, Sedona, or another top Arizona destination. Each location offers its own unique charm, whether you're drawn to the vibrant cultural scene of Tucson, the red rock beauty of Sedona, or the bustling excitement of Phoenix.

In Scottsdale, stay in a comfortable 3-star or 4-star hotel and explore the stunning Sonoran Desert, known for its iconic saguaro cacti and breathtaking landscapes. Scottsdale is also known for its luxury, boasting more spas per capita than any other city in the United States, making it the ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate. Take a stroll through Old Town Scottsdale, where Western charm meets modern luxury with boutique shops, art galleries, and fine dining. For nature lovers, nearby hiking trails like Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve offer panoramic views perfect for sunrise or sunset excursions.

Use the included $200 gift card to enhance your experience-whether it's savoring delicious Southwestern cuisine, enjoying a relaxing spa day, or booking an exciting desert adventure. While these activities are not included in the package, they offer wonderful opportunities to enhance your stay.* Whether you're relaxing by the pool, exploring local attractions, or immersing yourself in the unique desert environment, this Arizona getaway promises a memorable escape!

• 3 nights in your choice of 3-star or 4-star hotels in Scottsdale or another top Arizona destination
  Destinations include Scottsdale, Tucson, Phoenix, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, and more
• Includes $200 Gift Card for personal use towards food and beverage, excursions, etc
• Room will accommodate 2 adults and may contain a large bed or two smaller beds at the resort's discretion. Paid upgrades and extensions available
• Booking and concierge services

Only 3 Available

Detailed instructions will be included on the issued certificate. Valid for a variety of dates throughout the year. Subject to availability when you book. Primary traveler must be at least 21 years old. Paid upgrades and extended dates may be available when you book. Reservations must be booked at least 90 days in advance. Travel must be booked within 12 months and completed within 24 months. Certain optional amenities, such as parking, may require an additional fee at the property. Airfare, meals, and activities are not included unless specifically listed under Trip Details.