MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Some people say the research done at Versiti’s Blood Research Institute saved their life.

Others say it’s given their family members more time.

Those stories were highlighted Friday night when more than 200 people packed a ballroom at the Wisconsin Club in downtown Milwaukee for the 2019 Imagine Gala. The money raised supports the Blood Research Institute.

The Wauwatosa facility is home to physicians, scientists, and technologists making discoveries that impact patient diagnoses, advance treatments, and ultimately lead to cures.

The researchers have made numerous breakthroughs over the years and provide hope to patients affected by blood diseases, immune system disorders, heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

CBS 58 Morning News anchor Jessica Tighe emceed the gala for the second year in a row. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, the 2019 Imagine Gala raised more than $210,000.

The Blood Research Institute was established by BloodCenter of Wisconsin which is part of Versiti.