Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 2013 Diamond Ball
“A Brazilian Carnival”
Nearly 800 celebrities, community leaders, philanthropists, physicians, friends, supporters, patients and families of Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH), experienced a bold and elegant depiction of “A Brazilian Carnival” at Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 2013 Diamond Ball at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami. The black-tie affair raised more than five million dollars including announced gifts that will help support world-class care at Miami Children’s Hospital. The dazzling evening started with a very authentic float that served as a red carpet, and continued with Brazilian samba batucada drums that animated guests during the welcome reception. Once guests walked into the ballroom, they were whisked away to Rio, while enjoying an evening filled with glamour during an amazing “carnival” that included Brazilian themed dancers, the authentic “Hora Loca” and an unforgettable confetti blast and party favors.
The 2013 Diamond Ball was led by Chairs Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez and International Chairs Ana and Tony Figueroa Cisneros. The evening also included a special press conference where world–renowned Italian fashion house Cruciani announced a special donation of 600,000 of their popular macramé bracelets to the Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation.
“On behalf of the Miami Children’s System, Hospital and Foundation’s Board of Directors, and the entire Miami Children’s family we would like to thank our friend, Luca Caprai, the Caprai family and Cruciani, for this incredible gift,” said Lucy Morillo-Agnetti, President and CEO of Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation. “These types of partnerships allow us to maximize our reach and bring hope to children and families everywhere.”
The campaign’s unveiling took place in a packed room of media, filled with international and national press, hospital leaders as well as Hospital and Foundation board members, and patients and families from MCH, where the newly designed Cruciani bracelet was presented by patients of the hospital to Grammy award-winning singer Juanes, NBA World Champion Miami Heat players Shane Battier and Ray Allen, award winning actor and Spanish soap opera star Juan Soler, and baseball legend Sammy Sosa, among others celebrities in attendance.
Juanes was also honored that night, joining the ranks of Walt Disney, Dwayne Wade and Beyoncé Knowles as he was inducted into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame at Miami Children’s Hospital for exemplifying his passion for helping children throughout the world. During the evening, the foundation recognized the Colombian superstar’s dedication as a global activist, which extends far beyond his passionate lyrics and is seen in his wide ranging charitable work.
“I’m humbled by this recognition,” Juanes said. “As a parent, I know very well how the Miami Children’s Hospital touches each day the lives of children from around the world and it’s an honor for me to be inducted into their Hall of Fame.” It was a night to remember as exactly what was sought out to do was accomplished; celebrate and continue supporting the amazing work done for the kids at Miami Children’s Hospital.
