Newtown Residents Chair Hospital’s ‘Day To Make A Difference’ Fundraiser

DANBURY — The Danbury Hospital Development Fund, Inc is inviting the public to attend the 12th Annual A Day to Make A Difference pediatric auction on Friday, September 9, at 6 pm, at the Ethan Allen Hotel, 21 Lake Avenue. Auction proceeds will benefit the Danbury Hospital Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Retired Newtown pediatrician Humberto Bauta, MD, is the event’s honorary chairman, and Claudia Coopersmith of Newtown and Michelle James of Danbury serve as this year’s co-chairmen. They are working closely together with a dedicated, enthusiastic group of committee volunteers to create an evening that promises to be enjoyable and full of fun for all who attend.

“This year’s event theme ‘Baby’s Breath, it’s about … Miracles!’ reflects the committee’s desire to purchase a high frequency ventilator for the hospital’s NICU,” said Susan Kania, director, Danbury Hospital Development Fund.

“For the last 30 years, conventional ventilators have been used to save the lives of premature infants,” said Edward James, MD, attending neonatologist and chief of Danbury Hospital’s Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. “A high frequency ventilator has significant benefits over the older technology, enabling the ventilation of the delicate premature lungs without the harsh effects of the conventional machine.

“In 2003, ten premature infants had to be transported from Danbury Hospital to another health care facility because we did not have a high frequency vent to meet their needs,” said Dr James. “Danbury Hospital has long provided high quality medical care for our tiniest patients at our Level II NICU. Our goal is to continue this tradition.”

The event also includes cocktails, dinner by the bite, a silent auction at 6 followed by the Heart of Gold Award presentation at 7:45 and a live auction that begins at 8.

Paul P. Dinto, president and CEO of Paul Dinto Electrical Contractors, will be presented with the 2005 Heart of Gold Award. Introduced 2003, the Heart of Gold Award pays tribute to individuals whose tireless efforts make a difference in the lives of children. Past Heart of Gold Recipients include Dr Bauta, Willet Bowen, MD, Alvin Goldman, Ann Hines, MD, Robert Joy, MD, Martin Randolph, MD, and L. Robert Rubin, MD.

A Day to Make A Difference guests will have the opportunity to bid on auction items that include a ten-day Alaska fishing trip with guides, transportation, meals, and accommodations; difficult-to-obtain theater tickets; one year’s worth of ice cream for a family of four from Cold Stone Creamery in Danbury; tickets to high profile sporting events; theme gift baskets created by Danbury Hospital employees; plus jewelry, spa, and beauty packages; sports memorabilia; home décor; and more. “Auction items are generously donated by local businesses and loyal supporters of Danbury Hospital, because of its continued achievements in the health care and safety of our children,” said Ms Kania.

To attend and support the pediatric auction, a donation of $75 per persons is required. Patron, sponsor, benefactor, and corporate sponsorships opportunities also are available. For ticket information and reservations, call the Danbury Hospital Development Fund at 797-7227.