Monumental Support from 2018 Children’s Ball

The 2018 Children’s Ball raised more than $3 million for patients and families at Children’s National. Held April 6 at Union Station, more than 900 guests attended the 12th annual event led by co-chairs Patrice King Brickman, Marcy Cohen, Jean-Marie Fernandez, Michelle DiFebo Freeman, and Kay Kendall.

See photos from the 2018 Children’s Ball.

This year’s Ball honored Amy and Bret Baier with the Children’s Advocacy Award in gratitude for their 10 years of dedication to Children’s National and the Children’s Ball. First introduced to Children’s National when their oldest son was born with a congenital heart defect, the Baiers are tireless advocates for Children’s National, as illustrated with their generosity and active leadership.

Watch the Baier’s story.

“Children’s National kept our family whole,” said Amy Baier, who serves as vice-chair of the Children’s Hospital Foundation board. “The care that Paul received was truly special – but that’s what Children’s National does. The doctors, nurses, and staff ensure that every child can receive exceptional care and make every patient and family feel special.”

Additionally, Costco Wholesale was presented with the Corporate Honoree Award in gratitude for $25 million raised for Children’s National over 30 years and the company’s $25 million gift last fall for a total of $50 million in lifetime giving.

Watch this video illustrating the partnership between Costco Wholesale and Children’s National.

“We are proud to know that our annual fundraising efforts bring hope and healing to kids battling illness and injury, as well as help the dedicated experts at Children’s National develop new therapies and cures for future generations,” said Joe Portera, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the Eastern and Canadian Divisions.

The theme of the evening – “Children’s National. It’s Monumental.” – emphasized Children’s National’s commitment to the Washington region and the Ball co-chairs’ roles with Monumental Sports & Entertainment Group. Guests were encouraged to “Rock the Red” and were treated to sports-related fun throughout the night, including the Slam Dunk After Party complete with air hockey tables, basketball hoops, foosball tables, and dancing.

Celebrating his 10th year as emcee, Bret Baier made a special entrance as Dr. Bear, beating out Pax from the Washington Mystics, Slapshot from the Washington Capitals, and Teddy from the Washington Nationals in a mascot race.

Baier was joined on stage by Norah O’Donnell, co-host of CBS’s “This Morning,” during the live auction. Patient ambassador Amanda Merrell joined Baier on stage during the “call for cash,” but not before guests sang “Happy Birthday” to Merrell, who turned 16 the following day. At age 2, Amanda was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. She lost her left leg to the disease but has proven nothing can stop her from accomplishing what she sets her sights on. Today, Amanda is not only healthy and walking – she is a thriving athlete and serves as an inspiration for countless kids who face a daunting journey ahead.

Watch Amanda’s story.

“The Children’s Ball is about recognizing and celebrating the monumental impact philanthropic support has on kids in our care,” said Dr. Kurt Newman, president and CEO of Children’s National. “The children and families who walk through our doors deserve nothing but our best.”

Interested in sponsoring a future Children's National event? Please contact Jen Fleming via email or call 301-565-8530 for more information.

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