Audrey’s Children, go see it now!

The films I normally write about are transcendental, artsy, and artistically important films. Audrey’s Children is none of the above, but it is still a meaningful, honest film. It tells the story of Dr. Audrey Evans’ arrival at Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, her pediatric oncology achievements, and her creation of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. There are no special effects, no flashbacks, no plot twists, just a real story told with little fuss. This does not make the film any less interesting; on the contrary, it allows the viewer to focus on the story, which is a good one.

The reason this film hits close to home is twofold: I used to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House in Chapel Hill for the four years of my PhD, and I also volunteered at the Family Room in Madrid. Also, my sister works for the RMHC in Spain!

This is a solid film: great cast, beautifully written, great photography, and plot, but because this is not a big budget film, it will not last long in theatres, so make sure you see it ASAP, you are welcome.

Philadelphia. 1969. British physician, Dr. Audrey Evans, is newly recruited to a world-renowned children’s hospital and battles sexism, medical conventions, and the subterfuge of her peers to develop revolutionary treatments, purchase the first Ronald McDonald House for families of patients and, ultimately, impact the lives of millions of children around the world. Based on a true story.

On parties, galas in particular.

In the world of parties, fundraising galas have a special place, and I love them.

When I volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill, I worked at the gala, but at St. Vincent de Paul I have had the privilege of being an invitee!

So what makes a fundraising gala different? Consider the purpose: to raise money for your institution. That is going to make your guest list interesting i.e.: rich. Second, you are going to have other events within the party: an auction, a silent auction, and of course, the basic building block of parties: food, drink, music, possibly dancing; in our case a wonderful mass with ten bishops!

What I love the most about these parties is the socializing, the connections, the conversations, the banter, the joking, the good, positive vibe.

One of my few friends in the suburban wasteland that is South Florida I met at our gala five years ago and we are super friends! Plus a few acquaintances, and people that you only meet that one time, but have a nice conversation with.

It is a privilege for me to attend these galas and I love going and meeting people and chatting with different folks. The fact that the event is run by our students, and I get to chit chat and joke with them makes it even more fun!