SBUMC doctors, nurses, and patients hit the runway during the 2006 "Little Miracles" Fashion Show.

On Wednesday, November 19, children and young adults who are recovering from cancer will be the stars of a fashion show to benefit the Sunrise Fund. The Sunrise Fund benefits pediatric oncology services and research at Stony Brook University Medical Center. The fashion show, “Little Miracles: For Childhood Cancer Survivors” will feature children as young as one year old modeling the latest fashions in young clothing. The event in its fourth year, takes place on Thursday, November 19 at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook from 6:30-10:30 pm.

The Sunrise Fund at Stony Brook was established in 1999 as an initiative of dedicated parents to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and has enabled those caring for these children at Stony Brook to establish innovative programs such as School Re-entry, Play Fit-Stay Fit, Our Little Heroes, the Daniel Brooks Educational Award, and provide bereavement support. It continues to support new treatment facilities with advanced clinical services, such as the home of the Long Island Cancer Center at Stony Brook University Medical Center and provides funds to sustain innovative research. The event is designed to give parents and children an opportunity to celebrate their survival and to be recognized for their extraordinary courage, hence the “Super Heroes” theme!
      
“The anticipation of debuting in the Fashion Show has been exhilarating for these children and teens,” says Jeanne Greenfield RN, MSN, CPNP, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and one of the event organizers. “In the midst of their illness, this event promotes tremendous self-esteem for these children as they are applauded for their bravery when they grace the runway! It is a true celebration of survivorship for the staff, patients, families and community members.”

The Sunrise Fund will recognize two individuals at the Little Miracles Fashion Show for their generous support of programs run by Sunrise Fund. Dorothy Herman, CEO and President of Prudential Elliman Real Estate, a supporter of many community health initiatives, will be honored. William Gommo, whose grandaughter was treated at SBUMC for leukemia and is now in college, will be honored for his support of the Sunrise Fund until his death in 2007.

Dinner tickets to Little Miracles Fashion Show are $60 each; individuals may sponsor a child for $50 and a child and family for $250. Corporate sponsorship packages range from $250 to $2500. The evening includes beautiful raffle baskets, live auction and entertainment! To purchase tickets or for more information, please call 631-444-7720.

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