Over 550 philanthropists and community leaders attended the 21st Annual Guardians of the Children Luncheon & Fashion Show to benefit Holtz Children’s Hospital at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.

“Jackson is a staple in this community,” said Flavia Llizo, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer of Jackson Health Foundation. “The fact that we’re able to have events like this to raise critical funds for Holtz Children’s Hospital makes all the difference in the world to the patients and families that are served there.”

The luncheon raised more than $450,000 to support Holtz Children’s Hospital NICU and PICU. Special thanks to Philippa and Marvin Carsley, Janie and Ron Kupferman, and Roberta and Harvey Chaplin, for each couple donated $100,000. Funds raised went toward the purchase of fifteen new ventilators, also known as breathing machines. At Holtz, 30 or more children require a ventilator at any one time. A ventilator that would normally last a community hospital 10 years in its lifespan, lasts at Holtz only 5 years due to the number of hours the ventilators operate daily to provide life-saving breathing support.

“When you see ventilators being put into the hospital and children surviving because of it, you don’t stop,” said Andria Holtz, Guardian Angels Luncheon Chair. “Year after year we come up with a different project, and continue to raise money for an incredible cause.”

The 2019 U.S. News & World Report ‘Best Children’s Hospitals’ rankings, recognize Holtz Children’s among the top 50 best children’s hospitals in the nation. The rankings featured the top 50 hospitals in each of 10 pediatric specialties.

“I’m very happy to be able to make a difference in the life of a child,” said Silvia Fortun President of the Guardian Angels. “I feel honor and privilege to be able to do this work and give back. I’m thankful for everyone who came today.”

Guests were also treated to an elegant runway fashion show by Saks Fifth Avenue Dadeland. The fashion show, curated by Saks General Manager Juan Lopez, featured new designs from the Saks IT list.

“It was an epic day,” said Andria Holtz. “I feel blessed to be a part of this incredible organization. The fact that we were able to raise the amount of money we did, and make such a difference in the lives of children year after year is huge.”

Sponsors of the event included Dade County Federal Credit Union, Southern Glazer Wine and Spirits, AON, FPL, BNY Mellon, Marquis Bank, and more. Media sponsors included the Miami Herald, Indulge Magazine, and Modern Luxury.

To find out how you can help make a difference in the lives of children in need at Holtz Children’s Hospital, visit SupportJHF.org