The Orlando Sentinel reports:
The Hwangs were among more than 100 families who were guests at a giant Christmas party at Give Kids the World, a charity that treats children with life-threatening illnesses and their families to theme-park vacations. This is the first year that the nonprofit, which is 21 years old, has thrown a holiday party on such a large scale.
The shindig, which included a magician, a deejay, a juggler, face-painting and a visit from Santa, was a gift from Dr. Phillips-area residents Ed and Maritza Gonzalez, who donated the catering, entertainment and gifts.
"We were looking for an organization to give back," said Ed Gonzalez, 46, a businessman. "We've been blessed over the years."
The party was one more way that Give Kids the World offers families a respite from the often-overwhelming routine of caring for a gravely or terminally ill child.
Jeanette Parker of Orlando stays at home to care for her youngest daughter, Ruth, 5, who has a heart defect, epilepsy and autism and is not toilet-trained. There's little time -- or money -- for a vacation. On Christmas, though, Parker, her husband, Leonard, and their three daughters, including Ruth, got a break.
No comments:
Post a Comment