Championing Children In Houston

Texas Children’s Hospital Salute To Champions Luncheon And Fashion Show Breaks Fundraising Record

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography courtesy of Texas Children’s Hospital

THE SCENE: The Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the recent setting for a fabulous afternoon of fun and record fundraising. Over 400 of the city’s most notable sociables, health advocates, and philanthropists were on hand for the 12^th annual Salute To Champions Luncheon and Fashion Show. The afternoon featured fabulous fashion, touching tributes, and inspiring stories that tugged at the heartstrings of everyone who attended.

THE VIBE: The luncheon-chic crowd began the festivities in the ballroom foyer of The Post Oak where old friends gathered, new friends were made, and all brimmed with anticipation of the fun ahead. Guests then commenced into the venue for the luncheon and program where emcee and Fox 26 reporter Melissa Wilson effortlessly kept the program moving at a brisk and lively pace.

As attendees dined on a delectable, multi-course meal that began with a fabulous seasonal charcuterie board, they were treated to words from event leaders including the luncheon co-chairs and Texas Children’s Hospital leaders. The honorees of the event, “Legacy Community Champions” were Mady and Ken Kades, Stephanie and Frank Tsuru, Betty and Jess B. Tutor, and Sharleen and Rob Walkoviak. The afternoon was capped off with a fashion show that featured sixteen children known as “Patient Champions” and survivors who sported looks by Dillard’s. Each of these children was paired with “Community Champions” who are top philanthropists in the Houston area, donning looks from Tootsies. As they took to the runway together, the crowd frequently was brought to their feet to honor these inspiring people and the community leaders who supported them.

THE NON-PROFIT: The Salute To Champions Luncheon and Fashion Show, co-chaired by Sidney Faust, Judi McGee, and Elsie Eckert, raised over $500,000, an all-time gross fundraising record for the event. Proceeds raised from the event benefited the Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center at Texas Children’s Hospital, which seeks to prevent and cure childhood cancers and blood disorders.