The spirit of generosity soared to new heights as the community came together at the 2022 Heroes Ball to raise a record $1.3 million for Hasbro Children’s Hospital. This year, after two years of pandemic-related restrictions, the hospital’s signature event returned to a celebratory in-person gathering.
The grounds of the Moses Brown School in Providence were transformed on August 27 into an enchanting Italian-inspired courtyard. Guests enjoyed tented al fresco dining, an inspired speaking program, a spirited live auction hosted by professional auctioneer Tom Stebbins, and lively dancing to the music of the Silver Arrow Band.
The evening’s fund-a-need appeal, benefitting Compassionate Care Services, generated nearly $400,000. The funds will support an array of patient-centered programming designed to make a hospital stay a little more comfortable and enjoyable for children and families, including Healing Arts, Child Life, The Adolescent Leadership Council, and Patient and Family Navigator. These services integrate body, mind and spirit into the approach of treating the whole child – not just the symptoms or illness.
The moving speaking program included remarks from hospital leadership, patients, and families.
Former patient Emma Murray described how Compassionate Care services helped her cope while she received long-term care over the course of her childhood.
“Growing up, I never knew that these lifechanging programs and services were all funded by donors,” Emma said. “Today, I understand that it is quite amazing and powerful for a community to come together so generously to better the lives of children.”
Ryan Taft, father of 2022 Hasbro Children’s Hospital Champion Child Arianna Taft, described how these services, along with the compassion and kindness of the hospital staff, helped Arianna endure cancer treatment.
“There isn’t anything scarier as a parent than having your child diagnosed with cancer … but to know that she can go through it with a smile on her face, because of these services and the amazing people that provide them – there’s nothing more you can ask for,” he said.
Ryan and Arianna Taft were on stage to tally the 26 fund-a-need donations at the $2,500 level, which were generously matched by Hasbro, Inc.
Lawrence A. Aubin, Sr., Lifespan Board of Directors Chairman
Lifespan Board of Directors Chairman Lawrence A. Aubin, Sr.; Rhode Island Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital President Saul Weingart, MD; Hasbro Children’s Hospital Pediatrician-In-Chief and Medical Director Phyllis Dennery, MD; Hasbro Children’s surgeon-in-chief, Dr. François Luks; and event chair Melisa Verrecchia also spoke.
In his remarks, Dr. Weingart thanked the hospital’s youngest donor, Theo, who donated the $1,000 he earned from running a lemonade stand this summer, along with all of the other supporters in attendance.
“Hasbro Children’s Hospital is a tremendous resource for the community,” Dr. Weingart said. “But the community is also a tremendous resource for Hasbro Children’s Hospital. We could not do what we do without you.”
The 2022 Heroes Ball was made possible thanks to the support of this year’s event chair Melisa Verrecchia and co-chairs Denise Chakoian and Keith and Lynne Kelly; presenting sponsors CVS Health, Hasbro, Inc., and IGT; platinum sponsors Brown Physicians, Inc., Denise Chakoian and David Olney, Citizens, Core Cycle Fitness Lagree, Nerves & Bones, Seasons Corner Market; and many additional sponsors and donors.
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