Founding Donor Honored at Intimate Gathering
June 18, 2002

On June 18, a select group of philanthropic leaders enjoyed an evening of fine food and inspiration at Annemarie's Dining Room, one of New York's most gracious settings for intimate special events. Annemarie Huste, the evening's hostess and gourmet chef extraordinaire, provided a memorable meal in a welcoming atmosphere where her 35 guests could relax, reflect, and renew their connection to Project Kids Worldwide.

Time seemed to relax and expand as well, as the evening's attendees savored course after course - and each other's company. It was a time to honor PKW's mission and the unique contributions of one of its founding donors, Michael Rienzi. Dennis W. Schwesinger, Co-Founder of Project kids Worldwide, presented Mr. Rienzi with the PKW Humanitarian Award, drawing attention to the children whose lives have been saved thanks to his commitment and caring.

In accepting the award, Mr. Rienzi said, "Project Kids Worldwide is an organization that I'm proud to support, one that deserves the support of all of us." By the end of 2002, this outstanding humanitarian will have funded six heart surgeries at NYU Medical Center.

Ms. Huste received a special award as well. After all, the evening and its delights were her creation and her unique form of philanthropy on behalf of children in need. On accepting the award, she pledged her continued support for PKW, saying that the organization's work had touched a deep chord in her.

After the presentation, Ms. Huste's guests had a chance to meet the members of the PKW team, reflect on their accomplishments, and learn more about how children with heart disease are restored to health through the efforts of renowned cardiovascular surgeon Stephen B. Colvin, MD, and his gifted associates at NYU. Dr. Colvin explained how and why PKW came into existence, reminding his audience of the surprising frequency of heart disease among children - approximately 1 in 100 - worldwide.

But a picture sometimes tells a story more powerfully than words. Dr. Colvin proceeded to show a video that depicted a child's journey from the devastation of the disease to the miracle of a cure. "We have the expertise, the technology, and the desire to help these children," he said, "and we've already helped quite a few over the years. Now, with your support, we'll be able to reach out to many more families across the globe who lack access to high-quality medical care."

Heart disease can be completely reversed in a great number of cases, Dr. Colvin added. But because of poverty and an underdeveloped healthcare system, poor children everywhere continue to suffer needlessly and die. "By pooling our commitment and focusing on our life-saving mission, we can make a significant dent in the problem," he said.

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