We Were Changed for Good

During a pre-dinner cocktail reception, guests sipped magical elixirs from the Shiz University Clock Bar while mingling with influential philanthropists, corporate leaders, patient families, our remarkable clinicians and senior leadership, and celebrity guests—including Sirens actress Meghan O’Leary-Clark and ESPN personalities Field Yates, Dan Orlovsky, Hannah Storm, and Seth Greenberg. The Great and Powerful Giving Tree delighted guests with the chance to pluck a flying monkey from its branches to win prizes, including sparkling jewelry from Michaels Jewelers, pink and green Yeti coolers, and a Kamado grill and smoker.

Then the Ozdust Ballroom came alive with a Wicked medley from Dr. Violin, and Jim Shmerling and Joel Johnson from Johnson Brunetti, the Gala’s title sponsor, officially welcomed guests to the evening’s program. Co-host and All-Star Patient Ambassador (and an actor in his own right) Nate shared how Connecticut Children’s has helped him defy the gravity of sickle cell disease, after which Academy Award winner Hilary Swank took the stage to emphasize the life-changing impact of investing in children’s health.

In true Wicked fashion, a bit of sorcery followed dinner. Each guest received a letter from Madam Morrible herself, revealing the status of their “application” to her prestigious sorcery class. The “admitted” guests were invited to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Connecticut Children’s new clinical tower with COO Bob Duncan.

The evening soared even higher when young singers Hailey and Kaitlyn from South Windsor were joined by Jenny DiNoia for a thrillifying performance of “Defying Gravity,” launching the live auction for seven incredible prize packages—including tickets to Wimbledon and the NCAA Final Four women’s basketball championship.

But the true magic of the night came during the Bid for Kids live appeal. With generous gifts—some soaring into the six-figure range—supporters lifted the Gala’s fundraising total to new heights—all to benefit Connecticut Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Dr. Jeffrey Shenberger, Division Head of Neonatology, shared inspiring insights into the NICU’s extraordinary impact, followed by a moving video chronicling the care journey of the St. George family—Julie, Jeff and their twins, Austin and Garrett. There wasn’t a dry eye in the Emerald City. 

As the program came to a close with a final performance by Derek Klena singing “Dancing Through Life,” it was clear that our community had once again proven what can happen when good hearts (and a little magic) join forces. Together, we’re defying gravity for children’s health every day.