 | | | Trisha Renno, Patricia Balch, Martina Sola Heneghan, Sarah Franti, Charlie Gaulke, Gina Witucki Photo Mugsy Clicks | | | | | | Children's Health Guild hosted its annual winter fundraiser, BELIEVE, Dec 12 at the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco. More than 300 guests came together for the annual function that benefits George Mark Children's House in San Leandro and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland in continuing to provide the full spectrum of medical care for children and their families, including emergency and ongoing treatment, as well as transitional, respite, and palliative care. The event raised over $182,000 thanks to the generous sponsors and attendees of this year's event.
Guest Speaker Martina Sola Heneghan, a Bay Area native, tech industry executive, and mother shared the story of her first child who was diagnosed with a rare life-limiting neurological condition. Her family's journey led them to GMCH where they were able to find refuge as they have navigated an extraordinary path of caring for their child.
Patricia Balch, a former high school biology teacher, swim coach, and mother to four boys, also spoke and shared the story of her oldest son, who was diagnosed with brain cancer. After his passing, she set on a journey to go back to school to become a nurse; she currently works in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at CHO. Alongside her work as a nurse, Balch has put efforts into fundraising for brain cancer research.
The wonderful day of community, shopping, speakers, and fundraising was chaired by the efforts of our very own Lamorinda Women, Gina Witucki of Orinda and Trisha Renno and President of CHG Charlie Gaulke of Lafayette. The day's success was a result of their hard work and dedication. |
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA