On Sunday, July 27, L’uva Bella Winery in Lowellville, Ohio, will open its doors from 4 to 8 p.m. to host “Meritage of Miracles” – a wine-tasting and dining event to benefit Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.
Featuring unlimited beer and wine, great food, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and more, proceeds of the event will go toward establishing a palliative care program in the Mahoning Valley.
Dr. Sarah Friebert.
During a recent interview with 21 WFMJ, event founder and hospital volunteer Michelle Sergi said she was inspired to create the event after spending time at Akron Children’s Haslinger Family Pediatric Palliative Care Center.
“I’ve seen firsthand how Akron Children’s Hospital takes a family-centered approach, getting the family involved in their child’s care,” said Michelle. “That improves the quality of life greatly, and just the support system through that program is wonderful – you can’t beat it.”
The center provides care to children, prenatal to young adult, with complex, chronic or serious conditions. Both the children and their families experience enhanced quality of life in partnership with cure-directed care. During her time volunteering, Michelle met quite a few families who drove from the Mahoning Valley to Akron for palliative care services.
“It is very difficult,” she said. “They have to have special cars and equipment just to get their child to the Akron location. So having a palliative care program in the Mahoning Valley would just be so much easier and give easier access to care for these kids.”
Sarah Friebert, MD, Akron Children’s director of pediatric palliative care, will be in attendance that night to talk to guests about the hospital’s palliative care program and its impact on patients and their families. Michelle hopes that the success of the evening will make a big step in making the program a reality in the Mahoning Valley.
“We’re hoping to raise at least $15,000,” Michelle said. “Anything more than that would be amazing.”
The cost is $55 for an individual and $100 for a couple. For tickets, call 330-207-9650 or visit www.meritageofmiracles.com. Click here to watch Michelle’s full interview.
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