Health First LEEZA'S PLACE - 3rd Anniversary
Melbourne, FL

A passionate community, powerful leadership, generous philanthropists, a beautiful setting and a common goal; that was the scene in Melbourne Florida for the 3rd anniversary of our Health First Leeza's Place. What an incredible celebration it was! Our co-founder and executive director, Jamie Huysman and I were overwhelmed with all of the stories that have grown out of Leeza's Place since it opened; stories like Judy Barnum. Judy lost her Dad to the disease and is now the caregiver for her Mother, who was at our fundraising lunch sponsored by Mr. Joe Flammio. Her mom was courageously facing the diagnosis with grace and dignity. It reminded me so much of Evelyn Glover, our very first empowered diagnosed individual whose energy still fuels our purpose and whose family has been unfailingly supportive. We would not be in Melbourne if not for Dr. Rosemary Laird, my winner for the universal "mothers and shakers" award! Rosemary's forward thinking genius coupled with her tenacity and skill gave us life. Our Leeza’s Place Care Advocate, Joyce Kennedy and her superwoman assistant Sue Coates take the dream and make it real everyday. Those two are like Mother Theresa, Florence Nightingale and Eleanor Roosevelt all rolled into one! Thank you to this "tri-fecta" of talent for a perfectly beautiful day!

We can't say enough about the men and women of the Health First Foundation who continue to amaze us with the commitment and dedication. The volunteers were out in full force for the anniversary celebration and let's be real…the place wouldn't run without them!

Once we left the luncheon at the gorgeous at Eau Gallie, we found almost 200 people waiting for us at Health First Leeza's Place where the crowd was welcomed by Joyce and Mr. Roy Wright, Vice President of Health First, Inc. Tears streamed down everyone's face when the talented Annette Murray sang. I especially was deeply moved by her loving tribute and everyone sang along at the end when she sang “Moments to Remember”, the unofficial "theme" song of Leeza's Place. Thank you Annette! Also, a special thank you goes out to Diane Gallardo for once again doing whatever needed to be done to make things run smoothly. Can’t I get you to come to LA Diane?! And thank you to Ms. Cathy Ford who spoke so eloquently and leads so beautifully on the Board of Directors at Health First, Inc.

And thank you doesn't begin to express what's in my heart about the wonderful Memory Box which was given to me by Sue and Joyce on behalf of our families. What a great idea and so cute! Colorful and ribboned, it contains decorated cards with the most heartfelt stories and gratitude from those who have found Leeza's Place to be a godsend. I can't think of a gift more special. Thank you, thank you to everyone who made this day so perfect and so powerful beginning with the great advisory board!

There were many people involved in making the celebration happen, but here is a list of those who have our deep gratitude: Pfizer, Inc, for sponsoring our reception; For refreshments: Hoyman-Dobson, The law firm of William A. Johnson, The Fountain, Entenmann's of Rockledge; The beautiful floral arrangements by All City Florist; Our festive sign and balloons, compliments of Cindy Johnson, Party House; The courtyard tents courtesy of The Fountain; and our photographers Meghan and John Kelly!

On a more personal side of things, my friend and inspiration Jamie Huysman continues to teach me, encourage me and help me learn new ways to be of service…all while being tons of fun to be with. Without you, Jamie, this experience would not be as rich. Thank you! WE ARE SO THANKFUL FOR EACH OF YOU!