FALL 2002 • VOL.2 NO.4

Jennifer Overcomes

the OddsChildren and Obesity

A Rising Risk

Jennifer Overcomes

the OddsChildren and Obesity

A Rising Risk

The Epilepsy Program

Calming the StormThe Epilepsy Program

Calming the StormChildren’s Advocacy Network

How You Can HelpChildren’s Advocacy Network

How You Can Help

FALL 2002 • VOL.2 NO.4

President and Chief Executive OfficerMiami Children’s HospitalThomas M. Rozek

PresidentMiami Children’s Hospital FoundationRobin Reiter-Faragalli

Director of Marketing & Public RelationsMiami Children’s HospitalMarcia Diaz de Villegas

Director of Marketing & Public RelationsMiami Children’s Hospital FoundationIvette R. Diaz

EditorRachel Perry

Contributing WritersMaria Moldes; Ann E. Lyons; Jenny K. Hill;Sheryl K. Montle; Beth Painter; Allison Womble

Art DirectorsJ. Kevin Tugman, Lynn H. D’Amico

PhotographyPhoto Disc™, Digital Stock

Developed by

MIAMI CHILDREN’S HOSPITALBOARD OF DIRECTORS 2002Juan Carlos Mas, ChairmanRobert K. Jordan, Vice Chairman Deise Granado-Villar, MD, Secretary Georgina Angones; Peter Bermont; Evalina Bestman, PhD; Mark Blank; Miles E. Gilman; Ghislain Gouraige, Jr.;Gary Gregory; Steven Melnick, MD; Rene Murai, Esq.;Rigoberto Nuñez, MD; Christian C. Patrick, MD, PhD;Trevor Resnick, MD; Thomas M. Rozek; Mario Trueba; Jack Wolfsdorf, MD; JoAnne M. Youngblut, PhD, RN; Robin Reiter-Faragalli, Ex-Officio

MIAMI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATIONOFFICERS AND TRUSTEESAlbert H. Nahmad, ChairmanRobin Reiter-Faragalli, PresidentHarry Hood Bassett, Jr., First Vice President; William Morrison, Second Vice President; Mark Blank, Treasurer; Alan Ojeda, Secretary; Ambassador David M. Walters, President Emeritus;Donald H. Altman, MD; Luis J. Botifoll; Neil R.Chrystal; Florence G. Frank; Miles E. Gilman; Abel Holtz; Manuel R. Iribar, MD; Ricardo Pines; Alan H.Potamkin; Kenneth J. Reilly, Esq.; J. David Scheiner; Susan M. Sibley; Byron Sparber, Esq.;Eric Sulzberger, Esq.; Judy Weiser;Thomas M. Rozek, Ex-Officio

800-624-7496

2Children’s Gazette fall 2002

DDear friends,

Did you know that one of the leading health concerns of ourchildren today is obesity? Thirteen percent of children and adolescentsare seriously overweight, and that number is steadily growing. Ifyou’re concerned about the weight of your children, MiamiChildren’s Hospital and our medical staff can help. In this issue ofChildren’s Gazette, you can learn simple strategies to cut back onunhealthy foods, and you can check out our outpatient weightmanagement program.

You can also find out how to become a part of our grassrootseffort to help children in Miami-Dade County and all acrossFlorida. By joining the Children’s Advocacy Network, you canmake a difference that will be felt now and long into the future.There’s a cut-out reply card included on page 6—please fill it outand join us today!

In addition, this issue features Jennifer Nebel, an amazing littlegirl who overcame adversity after being born at just 23 weeks ofgestation and weighing only 14 ounces. Though her chances ofsurvival were slim, Jennifer has grown into a happy 2-year-old—and there’s no stopping this little girl!

You’ll also read the inspiring story of Armaan Sharma. Bornwith epilepsy, he suffered countless seizures each day until the expert Miami Children’s Hospital Comprehensive Epilepsy Programneurological team performed the surgery that saved his life.

I hope you enjoy this issue—it’s packed with helpful hints foryou and your family. Thank you for your continued support of Miami Children’s Hospital.

Sincerely,

Thomas M. RozekPRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERMIAMI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

3fall 2002 Children’s Gazette

Big things come insmall packages. Jodiand Ron Nebel realizethis each time theylook at their daughter,Jennifer Nicole Grace.

When Jodi suffered kidney failurejust 20 weeks into her pregnancy,her doctors knew little Jenniferwas in trouble. Though theyoffered little hope for Jennifer’sfuture, the Nebels refused to giveup, and an emergency Cesareanwas performed. Jennifer, born at 23weeks and weighing only 14 ounces,was then rushed to Miami Children’sHospital. She is now a small but active 2-year-old.

An Unexpected Turn of EventsJennifer’s dramatic early arrival intothe world began after an ultrasound at20 weeks showed that she was develop-ing on target. Jodi, meanwhile, wasslowly swelling and had serious pressurein her head. At a nurse’s recommenda-tion, Jodi checked her blood pressureat a local pharmacy—it was incrediblyhigh. Jodi was rushed to the hospitalwhere she was diagnosed as being intoxic shock with her kidneys near failure.The doctors were concerned about Jodi’slife, and they soon learned that her babywas in trouble, too.

“The doctors said that even if Jennifersurvived, she would probably live avegetative life,” says Jodi. “But I knewGod placed this little life in me for areason. I couldn’t let her die!”

An Angel UnawareThe Nebels had only a few momentsto make a difficult decision. Searchingfor a sign to go through with theCesarean section delivery, Jodi calledthe hospital chaplain’s office.

“As a Christian, I was calling for aminister or priest,” says Jodi, “but theonly person available was a rabbi—itturned out God used him to give memy answer. He made me realize thatthe doctors and nurses were there tohelp deliver my baby. I knew this was the answer I needed.”

A Miracle in the MakingAfter performing the emergency C-section, the doctors took babyJennifer to an incubator to be stabilized.The umbilical cord had wrapped fourtimes around her neck, a sight the doctors had never seen, and the slowbeating of Jennifer’s heart signaled thather heartbeat would stop unless quickaction was taken.

Jennifer was transported to MiamiChildren’s Hospital’s Neonatal IntensiveCare Unit, where F. Amed Soliz, MD,neonatologist and Head of the NICU;Pablo Valencia, MD, neonatologist;and their team of nurses immediatelywent to work saving Jennifer’s life.

“We’d never seen such a small, underweight baby,” says Dr. Soliz.“Fortunately, Miami Children’s hasthe staff and technology to care forthis kind of delicate situation.”

At Miami Children’s, Jennifer hadnumerous tubes extending from hertiny body and underwent blood transfusions nearly every day. In addition, her eyes were fused together.The doctors closely monitored hereyes, knowing they had a 24-hour window of time to operate. They performed emergency laser surgery atjust the right moment, saving her sight.

Finally, after spending her first fourmonths of life in a hospital, Jenniferwent home at barely four pounds—two days before Christmas. Who couldask for a better Christmas present?

A Happy Ending“We see baby Nebel quite often,” says Dr. Soliz. “She looks so beautiful,smiling and trying to walk.”

“It was a blessing that Jennifer wastransported to Miami Children’s,”says Jodi. “They saved her life.”

Jennifer is now a happy 2-year-oldwho loves to play and laugh with her8-year-old brother, Kevin, and her purpledinosaur, Barney. After recuperating athome for 1 1/2 years, she’s been to thebeach and to Mardi Gras at DisneyWorld. She doesn’t slow down for oneminute—she’s got too much living to do.

theOddsOvercoming

PATIENT PROFILE:

Jennifer Nebel

Jennifer Nebel, who started life at only 14 ounces, is now an active 2-year-old following care at Miami Children’s. Her favorite activity is playing with her brother, Kevin, 8.

Children’s Gazette fall 2002

ARE YOUR KIDS AT RISK?

Let’s face it: your hecticlifestyle keeps you onyour toes. After anexhausting day at work,you squeeze in time fora grab-and-go meal

from a drive-thru restaurant, andonce home, kick off your shoes andcrash on the couch for a little tubetime. But what about your kids?If you’re like many American families,your children are right beside you.But hey, they’re growing, and a fewextra pounds won’t hurt—or will it?According to the United StatesSurgeon General, the answer is yes.The organization reports that 70 percent of overweight and obese adolescents will become obese adults. “Obesity is associated with a numberof serious medical conditions includingType 2 diabetes, high blood pressureand coronary heart disease,” saysSamuel Richton, MD, board-certifiedendocrinologist and Director of theDivision of Pediatric Endocrinologyat Miami Children’s Hospital. “Weare diagnosing more children withType 2 diabetes caused by obesity than ever before.”

The Rapid Rise ofChildhood Obesity

Despite its dangers, the prevalenceof obesity has been rapidlyincreasing over the past severalyears. In fact, the Centers for

Disease Control estimates that twiceas many children and three times asmany adolescents are overweighttoday than in 1980. In addition, the American Diabetes Associationreports that the rates of Type 2 diabetesamong children—in most cases, adirect result of obesity—are reachingepidemic proportions.

A Simple Solution for Stopping ObesityThe good news is that stopping obesitycould be simpler than it seems.Experts agree that the bad nutritionalhabits and sedentary lifestyle of mostAmericans are largely to blame forthe alarming trend that’s sweepingthe nation. In fact, most overweight and obesityproblems are directly related to the

amount and kinds of foods that children eat. “It can be detrimental to label onechild as ‘fat’ or ‘overweight’ or eventalk about going on a diet,” saysSusan Malca, RD, LD, MS, HeadDietitian on staff at Miami Children’sHospital. “Instead, parents shouldinsist on good eating habits for theentire family.”“Depriving the overweight child ofcertain foods while allowing others to eat anything they want simply will not work,” adds Dr. Richton.“The best strategy is to keep foodsout of the house that you don’t want your child to be eating.”

Simple Strategies for a Safer WeightBuilding better eating habits can be

as simple aschanging yourshopping list. “Successfulmanagement ofobesity beginsin the super-market,” saysDr. Richton.“Children andteens eat theoverwhelmingmajority of theirmeals at home.By keeping onlyhealthy foods inthe house, you

Miami Children’s Hospital offers a comprehensive outpatient weightmanagement program for children. Rather than taking a “dieting”approach, the dietary experts provide nutritional counseling, andusing the food pyramid as a guideline, develop weight loss meal plans based on the types of food your children like.

The program requires a physician’s referral.

For more information, call (305) 663-6847.

Don’t WaitHealthy Weight

for a

Oesityb

44

can allow your child sensiblesplurges when they’re out.”

Beverages. Malca says that thefirst place to eliminate empty caloriesis with beverages. Here in Miamiwhere the weather is so hot, childrendrink juice or soft drinks all day longto quench their thirst. Unfortunately,the drinks they’re choosing may notbe the best for their bodies. “Soft drinks and even juice are full of calories that your children don’tneed,” she says. “In fact, by drinkingmainly water, you can cut out asmany as 300 to 400 calories perday.” The experts at Miami Children’srecommend purchasing only water,seltzer and diet drinks for use at home.Fried foods. “Another easy place toeliminate extra fat and calories isfried foods,” says Lisa Eichenbaum,MS, RD, LD/N, consultant dietitianon staff at Miami Children’s.“Prepare foods by baking, grilling orbroiling. Fried foods contain doubleor triple the fat and calories in leanmeat, skinless chicken or baked fish.”Snacks. “If sugary, high-caloriesnacks are causing problems at home,then don’t keep them around,” saysMarisa Azaret, PsyD, ClinicalDirector of the Pediatric BehavioralMedicine Program at MiamiChildren’s Hospital. “Give your children healthy choices, and you’llavoid power struggles over food.”And where your children eat can beas important as what they are eating.“The rule I give families I work withis this: no eating while watching TVand no watching TV while eating,”says Dr. Richton.

Get Fit with Physical ActivityThough healthy eating is a critical component of safe weight management,regular exercise is just as essential. Asthe use of television, computers andvideo games becomes more widespread,children exercise less and less. In fact,major studies have shown a strongcorrelation between the number ofhours of television watchedand the degree of obesity inchildren.“Limit the amount of timespent sitting, whether it’s infront of the television, computeror video game,” saysEichenbaum, “and increasethe time you spend in physicalactivity as a family. Choose an activity or sport you enjoy,such as dancing, soccer orcycling, to ensure long-termcommitment.”While organized exercise programs such as joiningsports teams are most beneficial,simply playing a game ofcatch with your daughter orson in the backyard can be agreat way to burn calories—and spend time together. “Your child is watching andcopying what you do as a parent,” says Dr. Azaret. “Bybeing a healthy role model and eating well and exercising regularly, your children willlikely follow your lead.”

Habits That Last a Lifetime“It’s never too early to startmaking good lifestyle decisions,

no matter how much you weigh,”says Dr. Azaret. “The health of yourfamily should be a top priority. If youinstill good habits in your childrennow, they’re likely to practice themfor a lifetime.”

fall 2002 Children’s Gazette

Did You

KNOW?Thirteen percent of children and adolescents areseriously overweight—more than a little extra baby fat.

According to the American Academy of

Pediatrics, obesity in children is defined as

more than 20 percent above the ideal

weight for the child’s height and stature.

Want to know how your child measures up?

Your pediatrician can determine whether

or not your children are overweight by

comparing their height and weight

against national averages.

If you need a pediatrician, call the Miami

Children’s Physician Referral service at

(305) MCH-4KIDS (624-4543)

or outside Miami-Dade at

1-888-556-4KIDS (4543). 55

Building a Better Future

for the Children

Fill out the form below and return it to the Public Policy & Governmental Relations Department,Miami Children's Hospital, 3100 SW 62nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33155-3009.

Name: ______________________________________________________________________

Street address:* _____________________________________________________________

City, state and ZIP: ___________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

Phone number: ( ) ______________________________________________________

Fax number: ( ) ________________________________________________________

E-mail address: ______________________________________________________________

* Address necessary to assign legislative district.

Join our Children’s Advocacy Network today!

How long does it take tomake a difference inthe lives of children allacross the state and thecountry? Five minutes.

By joining Miami Children’s Hospital’snew Children’s Advocacy Network, youcan help us provide a brighter tomorrowfor children in Florida and beyond.Our grassroots organization allows youto become a voice for Miami Children’sHospital at the local, state and federallevels—and all you have to do is pick up a pen.

After all, you only want the best foryour child—the highest level of healthcare and the most skilled medical staffavailable. At Miami Children’s, wewant to bring high-quality pediatriccare to children in Florida, the nation and the world.

But this is only possible with your support.

“Decisions are being made by legislatorsevery day that affect our children,”says Nilda Rodriguez Pedrosa, Directorof Public Policy and Governmental

Relations at Miami Children’s Hospital.“We want to ensure that these represen-tatives have the information they needto make choices and create the changesthat will benefit the children of Florida.”

Once you are a member, MiamiChildren’s will send periodic ActionAlerts that provide you with informationon important issues—like enactingbicycle helmet laws or supporting funding for Graduate Medical Educationthat helps train our future pediatricians.You then act as an advocate for Miami Children’s through e-mails,phone calls or letters to your legislators.

It’s that simple.

“Together, we can make a difference inthe lives of our children,” says Pedrosa.“By participating in the Children’sAdvocacy Network, you can help shape their future.”

Fill out the form below or visit our Web site at www.mch.com and click on “Advocacy at MCH” for more information on becoming a part of our Children’s Advocacy Network.

The Public Policy & Governmental

Relations Department at Miami

Children’s Hospital was recently

successful in acquiring the funds

necessary to encapsulate much

of the

hospital’s exterior walls, which will

allow it to withstand winds associ-

ated with a Category 4 hurricane.

Miami Children’s Hospital is a

designated evacuation site for

oxygen or ventilator-dependent

children throughout the area.

Thanks to the support of the

Miami-Dade County Office of

Emergency Management and the

leadership of the Florida Division

of Emergency Management, the

Federal Emergency Management

Agency (FEMA) is helping to fund

the project, which will protect

patients in the hospital as well

as provide a better shelter for

the evacuated patients.

By encapsulating the hospital in

hurricane-resistant paneling, the

hospital can provide even more

protection for these children.

Windows in the encapsulated

portion of the hospital are being

replaced with new hurricane-

resistant glass as well.

ShelterStormStormfrom the

6Children’s Gazette fall 2002

Robin Reiter-Faragalli Named President of Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation

Miami Children’sHospital is proudto welcome RobinReiter-Faragalli as President of the Foundation.

Reiter’s responsibilities include directingall of the development activities andFoundation programs in support ofMiami Children’s Hospital.

Prior to this appointment, Reiterserved as Vice President of HumanResources for The Miami HeraldPublishing Company since August of1999. As a member of the ExecutiveManagement Team, Reiter wasresponsible for all employee-relatedissues and was an active architect of the yearly planning process company wide.

From January 1994 through August1999, Reiter was Senior Vice Presidentand Executive Director of BankAtlanticFoundation, which facilitated all charitable contributions on behalf ofBankAtlantic in Florida. She was hired to create the Foundation and to develop a civic presence for BankAtlantic.

Between 1991 and 1993, Reiter wasan independent consultant in the areasof philanthropy, community and eco-nomic development and political andcivil affairs. Her clients included uni-versities, corporations, foundationsand public agencies in the U.S., LatinAmerica and the Caribbean. As a consultant for a project of theGreater Miami Chamber of Commercedesigned to “jump-start” the economyin Miami-Dade County, she helped toidentify close to $800 million in publicconstruction projects that were fast-tracked in 1992. Prior to her

work as a consultant, Reiter served asVice President of CorporateCommunity Involvement andExecutive Director of the SoutheastBanking Corporation Foundation.Hired by Southeast Bank in 1980, shecreated the Foundation and guided itsprograms throughout its 11-year histo-ry. In this role, she was also responsi-ble for assisting the bank with allsocial investing policies and theCommunity Reinvestment Act, as wellas providing theoverall linkbetweenSoutheastBank and thecommunitiesit served,throughorganizationsand govern-ment agenciesthroughoutFlorida andthe nation.

Reiter hasserved as aguest speakerand panelistto manyorganizations,including YaleUniversity,Virginia Polytechnic Institute, TheConference Board, the NationalEndowment for the Arts, the Councilon Foundations, and the BusinessCommittee for the Arts. She hasauthored articles for The MiamiHerald and The ContributionsHandbook and for Foundation Newsand New Society in Great Britain.

Reiter is a graduate of CarnegieTech in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

She is Chairman of The BeaconCouncil and a member of theExecutive Committee, as well as amember of the Board ofGovernors of the Greater MiamiChamber of Commerce. She is amember of the Board of theI.C.W.I. Group Foundation inJamaica and a trustee of The PeacockFoundation, a private foundation inMiami-Dade County.

Reiter currentlyserves as Treasurerfor the InternationalWomen’s Forum andis past President ofthe IWF-FloridaChapter. In addition,she has served as Co-Chair of theDade-MonroeWAGES Coalitionwith the Mayor ofMiami-Dade County,overseeing welfarereform; as Chairmanof the Miami-DadePublic Schools BlueRibbon Committee,overseeing the expenditure of $1

billion of capital improvements; asTreasurer to the Council onFoundations in Washington; on theNational Endowment for the ArtsTheatre Panel; as Chairman of theState Theatre Board of Florida, and as Chairman and Founder of both the Florida Foundation Group and the Donors Forum of Miami.

PH

IL

AN

TH

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PI

C

PR

OF

IL

E

TA

KE

N

OT

E HappyBirthdayto Our Miracle Children!

7fall 2002 Children’s Gazette

Alana Zabaglo 10/7

Kristin Schriver 10/8

Brian Longworth 10/11

Betzaida Lucas 11/28

Denzel Harris 12/4

Kayla Fauerbach 12/7

Leandro Sandin 12/12

Andrew Gleman 12/21

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Program at Miami Children’s

8Children’s Gazette fall 2002

Navodita Sharma, a resident of Orlando,Florida, went into laborin October 2001, hap-pily expecting the birthof a healthy baby boy.

But within minutes after her son,Armaan, was born, something wentterribly wrong—his tiny body began shaking uncontrollably.

“Armaan was experiencing innumerableseizures every day,” says Navodita.“For the first weeks of his life, he was either seizing or sleeping—sometimes both.”

Armaan was soon diagnosed with aform of epilepsy called cortical dysplasia.

Though he wason medicationsthat reducedthe seizures,they were not

adequate treat-ment for theseverity of hiscondition.Armaan’sphysicians toldNavodita that

he would have to wait about two yearsbefore they would even consider sur-gery as a treatment option.

But the Sharmas knew that Armaancouldn’t wait. He was seizing so frequently that he couldn’t eat or rest properly, so the family asked

their doctor for a referral to a specialty facility.

“We told him we would be willing totravel anywhere in the world to ensurethat Armaan received the best of care,”says Navodita. “He referred us to theComprehensive Epilepsy Program at Miami Children’s.”

The neurologists at Miami Children’swere immediately able to evaluateArmaan’s condition and made thedecision to perform the surgery—atemporal lobe resection—whenArmaan was just 10 weeks old. Thesurgery removed the portion of hisbrain that was causing the seizures.“Their decision was such a relief afterhearing that my child might have tosuffer years with his condition beforehe could get help,” says Navodita.

A Friend in the FightAnd Armaan is not alone. Since itsinception in 1980, the surgeons in theComprehensive Epilepsy Program havetreated more than 500 cases of medicallyresistant pediatric epilepsy—and over35 of those children have been lessthan a year old.

“Epilepsy is a disorder that is causedby electrical storms in the brain,” saysMichael Duchowny, MD, board-certifiedneurologist on staff and Director of theComprehensive Epilepsy Center at

Miami Children’s Hospital. “Though it can be devastating in adulthood, theconsequences are even greater inchildren because their brains, bodiesand social skills are still developing.”

While most cases can be controlledwith medications, approximately 10 to15 percent of children have medicallyresistant epilepsy, a more severe condition that isn’t as easily managed.

A World Leader at HomeFortunately for these children andtheir families, the ComprehensiveEpilepsy Program at Miami Children’sis a worldwide leader. The programcombines state-of-the-art-technologywith pharmacological research andextensive neurological and neurosurgicalexpertise to offer hope and healing tochildren with epilepsy around theglobe. “Our staff consists of highlytrained medical specialists with a varietyof backgrounds and expertise withepilepsy,” says Dr. Duchowny. “Wetake a team approach to ensure thatthe children we treat receive the best available care.”

That expertise is making a difference infamilies everywhere—just ask Navodita.

“Today, Armaan is a healthy, developing1-year-old,” she says. “I don’t evenknow how to express the gratitude Ihave for everyone at Miami Children’s.”

For more information on how theComprehensive Epilepsy Program can help you, call (305) 666-6511, extension 2607.

Creating Calm

Dr. Michael Duchowny with a young boy who suffered intractableepilepsy since birth and underwent a successful epilepsy surgery tocontrol his seizures.

Your children always race homefrom school, eager to begin theirhomework for the next day,right? Wrong.

In reality, homework is some-thing your children try to avoid,

but it’s also something you know is good forthem. So how can you create a happy mediumwithin your home?

Patience + understanding = success. “Kidsthrive on routine, so establishing a set schedulefor homework is essential,” says MarisaAzaret, PsyD, Clinical Director of thePediatric Behavioral Medicine Program atMiami Children’s Hospital. “Consider yourchild’s personality: does he like to get startedright after school or does he need a shortbreak first? Finding a time that fits your children’s lifestyles can make homework a less unpleasant task for both of you.”

Set your terms. Establish a time to study,then make your children stick to it. “Let themknow what to expect,” says Dr. Azaret. “Turnoff the TV, the computer and other distrac-tions. Agree that once the homework is com-pleted, your children can go outside and playor watch their favorite TV show.”

Help them out. Be available to your childrento answer questions and check answers. Inaddition, teach your children to break big jobsinto little chunks.

“Organization can be difficult for smallchildren, so divide homework time into 15-minute increments,” suggests Dr. Azaret.“Help them deal with the task they dread the most—like math problems—and alwaysremember that some children need moreparental involvement than others.”

Talk to the teacher. “If your children arestruggling, communication with their teachersmay be helpful,” says Dr. Azaret. “The teacherscan explain what’s expected of your childrenduring the day, and you can find better waysto help them at home.”

Homework

9fall 2002 Children’s Gazette

George E. Batchelor passed away on

July 29, 2002, leaving his wife,

Amanda, and family with many wonderful

and colorful memories. Mr. Batchelor’s

legacy will be remembered by the

thousands of children who will be

helped through his generous

support of Miami Children’s Hospital

Research Pavilion. He has been

a long-time supporter of Miami

Children’s Hospital Foundation,

and we will miss his guidance

and encouragement.

HagglingGeorge E. Batchelor

Deering Bay has become a popular location for the members ofthe Community Councils. Earlier this year the 2nd Annual TennisTournament was held there, and then in May the installation of officers took place in the dining room at Deering Bay. Guest speaker,Glenna Milberg, news reporter at WPLG Channel 10, entertainedthe members and told of how she became involved in the world oftelevision.

On June 20, Ristorante La Bussola in Coral Gables hosted an elegant dinner for the Community Council. Coordinated by JulieHeller, the evening honored Deise Granado-Villar, MD, 2002Healthcare Hero and Director of Preventive Medicine.

MCH FOUNDATION C o m m u n i t y C o u n c i l N e w s

Congratulations on the birth of a baby boy, Jon Henri, toJon and Mari-Tere Secada! Jon Henri is brother toMikaela, and another star for the Hugs & KissesChildren’s Fashion Show next year.

Congratulations!

Dr. Christian Patrick, Dr. Ruben Gonzalez-Vallina, Dr. Deise Granado-Villar, Dr. StevenMelnick, Dr. Rigoberto Nuñez and Dr. Stanley Smith.

On April 4, 1917, David McLean Walters wasborn in Cleveland, Ohio—and the world hasnever been the same since!

Successful in all aspects of his many years ofactive life, from earning the Bronze Star as aCounter Intelligence Officer during World

War II, to a prosperous federal, admiralty, aviation andimmigration law practice, to his role as a dynamic politicalfundraiser, to being the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican—the most rewarding success for Dave Walters has been thecreation and achievements of Miami Children’s Hospital.

A lifetime of triumphs rarely comes without heartbreak—the death of his granddaughter Shannon Joy Smith toleukemia; his first wife, Betty, to cancer; and his grandson toviolence—but Dave has shown a tenacity and strength ofcharacter to survive. Out of these deep tragedies blossomeda commitment that no Florida child should ever be withoutworld-class medical care.

Leading the transformation of Variety Children’s Hospitalinto today’s world-renowned Miami Children’s Hospital hasbeen Dave Walters’ mission for the past 32 years.

His 85th birthday was celebrated in style at the BiltmoreHotel among family and friends who gathered to recognizehis life and accomplishments. The occasion brought tributesto Ambassador Walters for his many achievements and thesuccess of Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation by localgovernments and the U.S. Congress.

Happy 85thBirthday!

Ambassador David McLean WaltersFounder and President Emeritus of Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation

At some point in time, a substantial por-tion of your wealth will be taken into thepublic domain for the benefit of society byvarious forms of taxation. As an alternative,you can direct how your dollars arespent—and receive othersignificant benefits—bymaking a charitable con-tribution via a charitableremainder trust (CRT).

A CRT is an irrevocabletrust providing for distribu-tions to you (or your fam-ily) for life or a term ofyears, with the remainderpassing to charity.Income can be receivedon a guaranteed basis,structured to rise (and fall) with the trust’sasset value, or structured to defer incometo a future date. Because a charity holdsa remainder interest in the trust, the CRTis exempt from income taxation and

capital gains tax upon the sale of appreci-ated assets. Therefore, a CRT can alsodramatically reduce taxes stemming fromthe sale of appreciated assets whileincreasing your immediate cash flow. At

the end of your retained interest, the trust ends and distributes theremaining principal to your favoritecharities.

Some of the advantages to using aCRT include, but are not limited to,the following:

• Transferring property to a CRT gen-erates a current income tax deduction.

• The sale of appreciated assets bythe CRT will avoid income tax on the

gain. Aside from the tax savings, this permits the trust to invest its assets in a more diversified portfolio.

• The assets of the CRT may be shelteredfrom the reach of creditors.

• Your charitable goals and/or your familyname will be perpetuated by distributingthe balance of the trust to the charities of your choice.

The CRT is a wonderful estate-planningtool that permits you to receive a currentcharitable income tax deduction; defer oravoid capital gains; receive an incomestream with a present value that may actually be greater than what you are nowreceiving; and make a positive statementabout your conviction and beliefs throughsupporting those charities important toyou and your family.

If you would like more information on charitable remainder trusts, or how youcan include Miami Children’s HospitalFoundation in your charitable plan, pleasefeel free to contact the Miami Children’sHospital Foundation at (305) 666-2889 orDarin I. Zenov at Steel Hector & Davis,(305) 577-2863.

H E R I T A G E S O C I E T Y

Darin I. Zenov

THE CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUST

10Children’s Gazette fall 2002

Publix store #00528 on Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines held a fun and uniqueCMN fundraiser—”Kiss a Pig.” The eventwas the brainchild of Publix associatesElizabeth Murray and Vijay Graydon. The pigwas generously provided by Hazel, themother of an MCH patient. Jars were placedat the front of the store with pictures of theparticipating managers. The manager(s)who raised the most money got to kiss thepig. Ricky Benitez was the winning officestaff associate and Bryan Reynolds wasthe winning common area manager. Bothkissed “Georgia Brown,” while baby piggyMaggie looked on. The event raised over$800 for MCH. Thank you to Store ManagerGray Hardy, Elizabeth, Vijay, Publix customers,Hazel and, of course, “Georgia Brown.”

RE/MAX News & EventsWELCOME to the CMN family! The followingRE/MAX offices have recently opened in theSouth Florida area:RE/MAX Eagle Realty in Pompano BeachRE/MAX Classic in Pembroke PinesRE/MAX Beach Properties in Miami BeachRE/MAX Executive Realty in HollywoodRE/MAX in Motion in Coral SpringsRE/MAX Grandeur Realty in Miami

Congratulations to Gary Smith and everyoneat RE/MAX Executive Realty on becoming a CMN “Miracle Office.”

The 10th Annual Children’s Miracle NetworkChicken Roast was held in Marathon andraised over $1,100 for MCH. Thank you toKaren Farley-Wilkinson of RE/MAX Keys and to the Key Real Estate and everyone whohelped to make this annual event a success.

Steven and Debra Betolatti from RE/MAXAdvance Realty in Kendall organized the “KidsMaking Goals for Kids” hockey tournamentheld at the Kendall Ice Arena in June.Nineteen hockey teams featuring kids ages 2 through 18 participated and had a greattime raising funds for MCH.

Below: Jim Wnek(left) and JohnThomas (right)present donationfrom Anheuser-Busch to LilyMirete, MiamiChildren’s HospitalFoundation

Publix associates at store #528 with “GeorgiaBrown” and baby pig Maggie

Publix Goes Hog Wild

Publix GolfTournamentThe 4th Annual Publix/CMN GolfTournament was held at the PGANational Resort & Spa in Palm BeachGardens. The tournament has grown somuch over the years that they played onthree courses this year and raised over$130,000 for CMN! Thank you, BillFauerbach, Maria Rodamis, DistrictManagers, Store Managers and everyone who helped to make thisyear’s tournament a huge success!

A Real TreatThe Hershey’s Kissmobile made a scheduledstop at MCH. Patients in the playroom had theirpictures taken with the Hershey’s costumedcharacters and received goodies from Hershey’s.

“Fishing for Miracles” The 7th Annual BP/CMN fishing tournament was once again held at HolidayIsle in Islamorada. Although the weather wasn’t picture perfect, everyonehad a wonderful time and raised over $20,000 for MCH. Thank you to thesponsors, vendors, anglers and the BP/CMN Committee for another great tournament.

Wal-Mart Grand Opening A big WELCOME to the newest Wal-Mart location in Pompano Beach. The grand openingcelebration included the presentation of a $2,700 donation to CMN.

Dining for KidsWhen you dine at the VerandaRestaurant at the Miami AirportMarriott, you will not only enjoy a deliciousmeal, but you will also be helping toraise funds for CMN/Miami Children’s.For every entrée purchased, $1 will be donated to the hospital.

CMN TelethonThe annual CMN Telethon was broadcast on WPLG,Channel 10 on Sunday, June 2. This year’s Telethonconsisted of eight pre-produced hours. Thank you toour volunteers who manned the phones, Papa John’sfor donating pizza for our volunteers as well as 500free pizza coupons (which were used as a Telethonpledge incentive) and Crystal Springs Water. A specialthank you to Dwight Lauderdale, Kristi Krueger andeveryone at our Telethon station WPLG, Channel 10.

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MCH Employees RaiseFunds for CMNDuring the month of June, MCH employees helda variety of fundraisers for CMN including a softballtournament, donut sale, raffles, potluck lunch andtalent show. Many departments also sold “miracle”balloons. Congratulations to the three top fundraising departments:

1st place—Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, $7532nd place—Medical Staff Office, $6573rd place—Patient Access, $423 THANK YOU to our dedicated employees!

Auntie Anne’s RaisesFunds for CMNAuntie Anne’s Pretzels held its annual nationalconvention in Orlando. The convention featured a silent auction benefiting CMN hospitals.

11fall 2002 Children’s Gazette

Upcoming EventsOctober 17Hibou Latin American Art Exhibit, 6–9 p.m.

October 29Shopping benefit at Bloomingdales from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For

more information, call Anne Marie Rozek at (305) 662-8407.

November 2Ambassador David Walters International Pediatric Hall of FameGala at the Hotel Inter-Continental.

November 2Burdines charity shopping event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

November 14, 15, 16 & 17Cuba Libre Golf Tournament at the Doral Golf Resort.

November 23 & 24Hasbro Toy Sale

For more information on these and other Miami Children’sHospital Foundation events, please call (305) 666-2889.

3100 Southwest 62nd AvenueMiami, FL 33155

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDMiami, FL

Permit No. 5774