The clouds gathered and delivered much-needed rain to Lakeway on Sunday, but it proved to be drops of love.

Residents turned out by the droves to support the fourth annual Seton Gala, titled “An Elegant Evening,” at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Michael Archuleta. It was certainly elegant, but for Sister Gertrude Levy, the outpouring of support was heartwarming. For the last 36 years she has been helping Seton Shoal Creek Hospital help raise funds to treat both addiction and mental illnesses.
Now 90, she has the energy of a young woman, the enthusiasm of a kid and a heart as full of love for those who are afflicted.
“The fundraising organization at Seton had been organized about a year before I arrived,” Levy said. “But our goal is singular: Our chief aim at Seton is to continue our mission to work for the sick and the poor who cannot afford to pay for what they need. We don’t turn anybody away.”
And when it comes to mental illness and addiction, the needs are daunting. That means fundraising events like the one in Lakeway are imperative if Seton is to continue to serve the infirmed.
“It is so important that we raise funds,” Levy said. “So many who come to Shoal Creek have no other place to go. If we can, we help them.”
Organizing a fundraiser like “An Elegant Evening” is no easy task. Levy was quick to praise the local residents who give generously of their money, time and efforts to make such events a success.
“This group in Lakeway has been very active,” Levy said. “They have been active with Seton for seven years now. They work constantly to make this — our primary fundraiser — a success.”
Judging from the turnout, success is assured. Yet best of all, every dollar raised will benefit Seton Shoal Creek Hospital — either through direct donations or underwriting.
It is work that Levy finds extremely rewarding.
Levy is a nun Order of St. Vincent.
“St. Vincent organized the Daughters of Charity in the 1600s to work for the poor and the sick, so we continue that mission,” Levy said. “So whatever we can do, we do.”
Levy was flanked by Edward Olmeda, a Development Officer with the Seton Family of Hospitals.
“We are so fortunate to see so many people — even in this weather — turn out to help our cause,” Olmeda said. “It says everything about the type of caring people they are — they will come out on a rainy day or a sunny day to help our cause.”
Both Levy and Olmeda agree that the economic downturn has had an impact on charitable giving, but they are amazed at the resillience of their supporters.
“It [the economy] has had some effect, but those who understand our mission are so very generous,” Levy said. “We are very grateful to all those who help us — in spite of the economy.”
Levy pointed out that people cease being ill during sour economic times — and in fact she said that often the need increases due to the strain and stress that so many feel during such times.
Levy said the outpouring of support left her “humbled.”
“There are so many people that deserve thanks, but we certainly want to thank Dr. and Mrs. Archuleta for allowing us to use their beautiful home for this event,” Levy said.