Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation 2010 Diamond Ball
Celebrating Miami Children's Hospital's 60th Anniversary
Nearly 700 guests stepped back into the 1950s at Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 2010 Diamond Ball at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The gala celebration was in honor of Miami Children’s Hospital’s 60th anniversary and paid tribute to the hospital’s patients, world-class physicians and generous philanthropists who believe in and encourage the Foundation and Hospital’s mission. The event raised $1.6 million, including announced gifts.
Guests enjoyed a night of elegance with culinary delights and 1950s themed décor, complete with poodle skirt hostesses and a lemonade stand. The evening’s entertainment included an array of musical performances by Grammy Award winning singer Albita, Bruce Green Orchestra and Anthony Bucciero. Voice of the Miami HEAT Michael Baiamonte served as master of ceremonies.
Among the highlights of the evening was the induction of Barbara and Jack Nicklaus, philanthropists and first family of golf, into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame, named for the Foundation’s founder.
“If you look at the names who have been inducted over the past quarter-century,” said Barbara Nicklaus, “you see a roll call of individuals who have been pioneers in pediatric health care or have used their celebrity or influence to touch young lives and champion advancements in the care of children. To be included on this list means you might have made a difference in a young life and that is all we have ever wanted.”
With their induction the Nicklauses join an exclusive group of legendary children’s advocates, including Beyoncé, Dwyane Wade, Audrey Hepburn, Jonas Salk and Walt Disney, to name a few.
The brightest stars of the evening were grateful patients and families celebrating the 60th birthday of the Hospital that saved their lives. Among them were CBS 4 anchor/reporter Marybel Rodriguez, music sensation Ethan Bortnick, Nathan Bortnick, Ilana Baiamonte, Jordan Mollere, Oliver Stern and Natalie Ress. With gratitude, together they took the stage and sang Happy Birthday to Miami Children’s Hospital. The children later presented the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame award to Barbara.
Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation President Lucy Morillo-Agnetti summed up the night when she addressed guests: “It’ s not every year your hospital turns 60 and it’s due to your support every year that we are able to mark this momentous occasion.”
