Fraser Cobbe

Orange County Medical Society

Physicians throughout the community are coming together tonight, Nov. 3, to support local children and their families through a gala being organized by the Orange County Medical Society. The main beneficiaries of the evening will be New Hope for Kids as well as the OCMS Foundation and Alliance.

Founded in 1996, New Hope for Kids has been bringing hope, healing and happiness to those Central Florida children and families dealing with grief, loss or life-threatening illnesses.

"The OCMS Leadership wanted to give back to the community this year and we knew where we wanted to focus our attention", said Dr. Brian Nobie, President of the Orange County Medical Society.

He added, "It's tough as there are so many amazing charitable organizations throughout the region. We settled on New Hope for Kids because they are based in Orange County, primarily support kids in our community, and they address something dear to all physicians; helping children and families deal with the unfortunate realities of illness and loss of life."

New Hope for Kids offers support and hope in the home-like environment of their Center for Grieving Children in Maitland. Families with kids ages 3 to 18 find support there during a time of extreme vulnerability - because of the death of a loved one caused by illness, accident, murder or suicide - suddenly unsure of what the future holds. Specialized activities in peer group settings gently guide these children through the grief process. In addition, their parents or caregivers receive support, providing a whole-family healing experience. This program provides support to approximately 375 children and 300 adults each year.

New Hope for Kids Wishes for Kids Program improves the quality of life for children who have been diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. Their diagnosis can be lifec hanging in many ways. Medical restrictions may keep them from spending time with friends. Limitations of physical disabilities may cause isolation, reducing educational opportunities and limiting progress. Granting a child's very special wish brings them joy for today, hope for the future, and memories to last a lifetime.

David Joswick, Executive Director of New Kids for Hope, expressed the enthusiasm with which his organization views this new collaboration. "We are always looking for ways to engage the entire community in supporting our mission to help these children. Each year our volunteers donate approximately 14,000 hours of support. Involving physicians in particular though is really important given their obvious role in caring for our community and our clients. It's great to have this group of physician leaders invest their resources and focus on these families."

The event, billed as a Denim & Diamonds Gala, is taking place November 3rd at the Orange County Regional History Center. Details on the program and instructions on how to donate are available on the Orange County Medical Society website.

Click here to register.