Guardian Brain Foundation hold annual Butterfly Ball
Bellmore Life, 12/7/05
The Guardian Brain Foundation recently celebrated its third annual Butterfly Ball at the Carltun. The perfect mix of fun and elegance made the evening a success. Arjay Lewis from Arjay Lewis Productions captured the guest’s attention by donning his mask and cape and greeting all entering the cocktail room by singing the Phantom of the Opera. Father Tom Hartman, of the GOD Squad and Father Thomas Hartman Parkinson’s Foundation, welcomed everyone with his warm smile and gave a heartfelt benediction to all.
Spencer Shea, son of Catherine Shea, toasted all and named a new program “Celebration of Life Award” in his mother’s memory. Catherine Shea lost her battle to a cancerous brain tumor. This award will he given to an individual who demonstrates optimism in times of adversity, foresight and hope in times of despair, courage in times of weakness and most importantly celebrates tile spirit of life.
Mary Pallotta, founder and president of the Guardian Brain Foundation. welcomed everyone and shared the memory of her brother Dennis who lost a three month battle to brain cancer six years ago and tragically lost her father to CJD Sporadic this past year.
She explained that each year over 100,000 people are diagnosed with a brain tumor. 3.5 million Americans are living with a disability as a result of a traumatic brain injury. One in every million will he diagnosed with CJD Sporadic.
She explained how her world was suddenly turned upside down, and how fragile it is. Mary reminded us all that life is about choices and thanked everyone forchoosing to make a difference. Mary urged all not to overlook life’s lessons and to take nothing for granted. There is no greater gift than touching the lives of others.
Long Island philanthropist Agnes Trill Funk was our honoree. Her dedication, support, and devotion has helped so many. Agnes lit up the event with butterfly lights displayed as the centerpieces. They were auctioned off at the end of the evening.
Comedian Joey Kola was the Golden Guardian. Laughter was contagious as he grasped the audience and made the Butterfly Ball become a memorable evening. Michael Pallotta Jr. produced and directed a video of Joey Kola.
Michael Pallotta announced The Guardian Brain Foundation’s new Program Director Robert Crescenzo, and programs for the up coming year. A special tribute was made to tile many that have lost their battle to brain cancer, tumors and in Awards were given to Catherine Montero. development director and executive secretary and Joseph Lewy, our web designer and webmaster. The awards had a built-in clock. thanking them for taking the time to help make a difference.
A very special thank you to Jennifer Pulgrano for helping us give out the awards. Ms. Pulorano had an astriosytoma brain tumor. She has shown courage strength and support to The Guardian Brain Foundation and so many. Jennifer is a true Guardian who is an inspiration to all.
Kayo from Glyde Productions showed a wonderful montage that he created of The Guardian Brain Foundation events from the past year.
Author James Patterson generously donated one of Mr silent auction items. This year’s winner’s name. Susan Anion from Anton Publishing, will he featured in an upcoming book.
Last year’s winner, D. Shapiro, will be featured in a book being released later this month.
We would like to thank all of those who not only donated their time in helping make the night a success hut all of those who donated services and items for our silent auction and raffles.
A special thank you to Edible Arrangements of Wantagh for adorning each and every table with not only beautiful, hut delicious centerpiece dessert baskets.
The Guardian Brain Foundation would like to thank everyone for joining in its mission. With your dedication and support we will continue to make a difference.