Thanks to the generosity of the Miami City Ballet, eleven mothers of children who receive medical care at the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC), attended the Miami City Ballet’s Program II at the Broward Center for Performing Arts on Saturday, January 15, 2011. The plans for this special evening began after CDTC Transformer Karen Kintner of Classical South Florida secured a donation of tickets to the Miami City Ballet.
The Transformers, CDTC’s professionals networking group which celebrates its one year anniversary this month, identified “One Enchanted Evening” to celebrate the extraordinary mothers of CDTC’s “Kids Wish Heroes.” Each “Hero” is a child who has a special health care need, such as Down Syndrome, cardiac disease, cancer or other serious condition, and has been recognized for his or her courage, in spite of their lifelong challenges. The mother of each of these heroes was celebrated on this special night for exemplifying courage and strength to their sons or daughters.
The mothers met at CDTC in Fort Lauderdale, where they were greeted by CDTC’s very own “Fairy Godmother,” former Board Member and Leadership Council Chair, Mrs. Audrey Millsaps. The mothers then had their make-up done by CDTC Transformer and professional make-up artist, Margarethe Sorensen. The mothers received corsages on behalf of John Kalis, General Manager of Publix at The Harbor Shops, before being whisked away in a limo, courtesy of Associated Limo and facilitated by Scott Kaplan of Maroone Ford, for their enchanted evening. After a complimentary dinner provided by Truluck’s, which was facilitated by CDTC Transformer Keith Winn of Green Profit Solutions, the mothers attended the ballet.
“We are honored that these wonderful, loving and beautiful mothers – who give so much of themselves to their children – will be able to relax this Saturday night and enjoy a Miami City Ballet performance for the first time in their lives,” said Edward Villella, founding artistic director and CEO of Miami City Ballet. “We welcome them and thank them for all of their hard work, dedication and love.”
“We are so grateful for the kindness of the Miami City Ballet, Truluck’s restaurant, and Associated Limo for allowing our mothers to be part of this amazing experience and for the CDTC Transformers making this entire evening possible,” said Dr. Ana Calderon, Assistant Administrator of CDTC.
CDTC Transformers is a group of networking professionals in the South Florida community who serve as advocates for Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center. Formed in January 2010, this group has grown to over 70 members who participate in fundraising efforts and raise awareness for the Center. Transformers enjoy invitations to four exclusive networking receptions a year.
The Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC) is a not-for-profit organization that serves more than 10,000 children with special health care needs in Broward County. CDTC’s mission is to promote the optimal health and well-being of children with special health care needs by providing comprehensive prevention, intervention and treatment services within a medical home environment. CDTC is a nationally recognized “Center of Excellence,” offering a unique system of care for infants, children and youth with chronic illnesses, disabilities and developmental delays. All medical care and social services are provided regardless of the families’ ability to pay.