(L-R) Children’s Health Guild event chairs Audrey Mao Michaels, Hannah Kim, President Dariana Ross and Tania Celante organized the nonprofit’s successful spring fundraiser benefiting UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and George Mark Children’s House in San Leandro.
Chaired by a group of Lamorinda women, including Orinda residents Tania Celante and Audrey Mao Michaels, with Hannah Kim and CHG President Dariana Ross of Lafayette, Children’s Health Guild (CHG) pulled off another successful fundraiser.
“Thanks to our generous sponsors and donors, the event raised over $440,000,” said Wendy Rotblat, CHG public relations chair.
The May 11 evening at Roundhill Country Club in Alamo included gourmet food, live and silent auction packages, and inspiring speakers. The event was underwritten by corporate sponsors so all donations went directly to deliver medical care to children and their families at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland (CHO), including emergency and ongoing treatment.
George Mark Children’s House (GMCH) in San Leandro, also a CHG beneficiary, is distinguished as the first free-standing pediatric palliative care center for children in the United States.
CHO President Dr. Michael Anderson spoke about innovative pediatric medical breakthroughs while Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Sergeant Reginald Cooks related his family’s experience at George Mark House. He and his wife, Kristalle, turned to GMCH for help with their son Jabari.
“A hospital isn’t a place for a baby. The staff is caring but it’s cold and sterile,” said Kristalle Cooks. “Jabari had a beautiful smile. His light was dimmed at the hospital. George Mark was the exact opposite for us.”
Live auction items such as a 10-day African safari and 7-night stay in Punta Mita, Mexico, added excitement to the bids. Pop Rocks, the San Francisco dance band, finished off the evening, which went late into the night.
To learn more about CHG, go to www.childrenshealthguild.org.
