‘Hats Off to Children’
The ladies of the Del Mar Unit of Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary are tipping their hats to the recent success of Hats Off to Children, held at the end of April and chaired by Denise Stein.
Patrons sipped signature pink martinis as they entered the door. Hats and fascinators by Jenifer Buckley and Aimee Meals created a shopping frenzy for those in search of the perfect hat for the upcoming Kentucky Derby parties and Opening Day of the Races. If you missed the coveted fashion show hosted by TRE Boutique, don’t fret. Sophisticated and savvy outfits are available at their locations in Pacific Highlands Ranch, Flower Hill Promenade and Encinitas Ranch Town Center.
Jackson Wagner, former patient at Rady Children’s Hospital, engaged the audience by sharing how he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2012 at the age of 17. The doctors had found a tumor in his stomach that was growing rapidly, and he spent six months at Rady Children’s Hospital enduring intense chemotherapy. Jackson shared his experiences of his journey and how Child Life Services helped him cope through this very difficult time in his life. Jackson is now in remission, supporting Rady Children’s Hospital by speaking at charity events and attending college.
Taylor and Kelsey, specialists from Child Life Services explained how they prepare children psychologically for surgery and offer emotional support and coping techniques, such as relaxation, diversion and deep breathing. They demonstrated with medical equipment showing how they help familiarize young patients with the equipment and procedures. These vital programs of Child Life services are proven to be an invaluable aspect of treating the whole child, however these services are not covered by insurance. With philanthropic support, Rady Children’s offers exceptional care to patients in a holistic environment.
The Del Mar Unit of the auxiliary is thankful to all its supporters and donors. Donations help ensure that care matters over cost, and that children are not turned away because their parents cannot pay. Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary is an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to support children through advocacy, community awareness, and fundraising. Visit www.rchadelmar.org or Facebook @RadyChildrensHospital
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Online: www.delmartimes.net