More than 800 children and their families were treated to a holiday extravaganza on Saturday, December 12 thanks to the generosity of The Michael Fux Foundation, who hosts an annual party for young patients and their families at Miami Children’s Hospital.
Santa was there handing out presents that each child specifically requested for the holidays. NBA All-Star Alonzo Mourning, 2013 Indy Lights Champion and racing phenomenon Sage Karam and recording artist Austin Mahone were among the celebrities in attendance. Jungle Island entertained and educated the children with zoo animals.
The private party held at Miami Children’s Hospital is an annual event held exclusively for select young patients and their families. "It brings me great joy to do this," says Foundation Founder Michael Fux. "There’s nothing like giving a child a gift, and getting a smile and a hug. This is something I love doing."
For the last nine years, The Michael Fux Foundation has sponsored an annual holiday party during which the Foundation grants these special children their greatest holiday wishes, while providing a safe and festive environment where they can celebrate with their families. The young guests are all patients undergoing treatment for serious illnesses.
In October, the children confided their greatest holiday desires and then the shopping began. The Foundation received requests for bicycles, computers, clothes, iPads, furniture, televisions, and many other gifts. Volunteers from Teens Team Up Against Cancer and other groups in Miami-Dade County wrap the gifts.
The party also featured lunch with ice cream, cake, and cotton candy. Children enjoyed elaborate face painting and caricatures, games, balloon artistry, arts and crafts, visits from Disney characters, and the highlight of the day, Santa distributing presents.
Businesses and companies wishing to contribute cash or goods for future events can call Valerie Hupchick at 732/272-9112 or email vhupchick@migloholdings.com.
About The Michael Fux Foundation
The Michael Fux Foundation is a long-time partner of Miami Children’s Hospital. Among other projects, The Foundation donated funds to create The Michael Fux Family Center. The Family Center is a cheerful and peaceful environment with a library, media room, exercise room, kitchen, theater, and laundry facilities, serving as a bit of home for families with a child in the hospital. The Michael Fux Foundation has also covered costs for medical procedures for some children at the hospital.
