Published on: 07/22/2011
MIAMI – (July 22, 2011) – Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation (MCH Foundation) President & CEO Lucy Morillo-Agnetti today announced music legends and South Florida icons Gloria & Emilio Estefan will be inducted into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame at Miami Children’s 2011 Diamond Ball. The gala will be held at JW Marriott Marquis Miami on Saturday, Oct. 29.
“Miami Children’s Hospital has been a pillar in our community for decades,” said Gloria and Emilio. We have personally been involved with the hospital and foundation on many levels and have witnessed firsthand the incredible care and service they provide to their patients and families. To be recognized and receive an honor of this caliber from an organization that does such great work for our families is truly an honor.”
Named after the first Chairman and President of MCH Foundation, the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame was created in 1986 to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the health and happiness of children everywhere. It is the highest honor bestowed by MCH Foundation.
The Estefans will join an exclusive group of legendary children’s advocates, including Beyoncé, Dwyane Wade, Barbara & Jack Nicklaus, Kelly Preston, Jonas Salk and Walt Disney, to name a few.
The Estefans were selected for their work on behalf of children, not just in their own backyard, but on a global scale. For years, they have given their time and treasure and have helped create awareness for a variety of leading children’s causes through the Gloria Estefan Foundation.
They are active supporters of MCH Foundation as well as other non-profits. Much of the time, their donations are made anonymously.
“Children’s lives have been saved as a result of the Estefans support and many times it goes unnoticed,” said Morillo-Agnetti. “Gloria and Emilio have instilled the value of philanthropy and their passion for children’s causes to their children and we believe this deserves to be recognized on an international level.”
One of South Florida’s most anticipated charity events, the Diamond Ball is known for amazing guests each year with unique venues, fresh themes and appearances by South Florida’s social elite.
The event previously has been held at AmericanAirlines Arena, featuring performances by Smokey Robinson and Gloria Gaynor, and the Fontainebleau with entertainment including Albita and Anthony Bucciero.
“This year we will create an ambiance of mystery and festive celebration with an elegant Masquerade theme,” said Morillo-Agnetti. “The Diamond Ball leaves lasting memories for our guests each year that create buzz for the following year. We like to start the social season with an event that is tough to match.”
For a complete list of previous Hall of Fame inductees, please visit http://mchf.org/2079/Benefits-of-Giving/Hall-of-Fame.aspx/.
To learn more about becoming a part of the 2011 Diamond Ball, please contact Morgana Rolle at mrolle@mchf.org or 786.624.2038.
About Miami Children's Hospital Foundation
Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation is a not-for profit 501 (C) (3) established to create a world-class pediatric hospital so no child need leave South Florida for superior medical care. “Funding World-Class Care” and following the principle that all children deserve state-of-the-art pediatric care with no financial boundaries, the Foundation helped 289-bed Miami Children’s Hospital become a leader in pediatric health care with more than 40 subspecialties, the largest pediatric neurology center in the United States, a top provider of cardiology and neonatology services, and a Research Institute conducting in excess of 200 clinical trials and protocols.
Miami Children’s Hospital is one of 170 pediatric hospitals in North America affiliated with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® and South Florida’s only freestanding Hospital dedicated exclusively to children. To learn more about the Foundation and offer support, visit www.mchf.org, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MCHFoundation, or call 305.666.2889 (toll free: 800.987.8701).