Butterflies signify hope and renewal. That’s why they’re the perfect symbol for Wings, BJC’s pediatric hospice and palliative care program for children and youth with life-limiting illnesses. “Wings focuses on the clinical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of the entire family, regardless of their ability to pay, as well as on the needs of the community,” explains Joan Thompson of Friends of Wings, a group that raises funds for Wings. “Our bereavement specialists are there every step of the way, up to two years after a child’s death. It’s the only program of its kind in the region.”
In addition to comprehensive hospice and respite services, Wings provides programs that help people deal with their emotions following the death of a beloved child, sibling or classmate. Services include camps for kids; retreats for parents; expressive therapy programs that incorporate the arts; Joyful Celebrations, which helps patients recognize birthdays and other special occasions with family and friends; and Wings on Wheels, a mobile expressive therapy unit for kids, families and communities touched by illness and loss. “Wings helps people express their grief in a healthy way, by honoring their loved ones and celebrating their lives,” Thompson says.
There is no charge for these services, and programs aren’t limited to BJC patients, Thompson adds. “Friends of Wings has raised more than $5 million since 2001, and we also rely on corporate and individual donors,” she notes. The Social Butterfly Bash, a fundraiser presented by Friends of Wings in partnership with Evntiv, Neiman Marcus and Koman Properties, takes place Oct. 18 at St. Louis City Hall. Nicole DiMartini and Stephanie Schnuck, who chaired last year’s Bash, will be honored that evening for their fundraising efforts. “Our theme is ‘party like a celebrity,’ and we’re going all-out to make each and every Wings supporter feel like a star,” Thompson says.
All guests will enjoy dancing, cocktails, specialties prepared by top local chefs, and the opportunity to bid on ‘celebrity experience’ packages featuring luxury items or services and an autographed Social Butterfly sculpture. “Each unique, 7-inch-high butterfly sculpture is autographed by a celebrity, including Katy Perry, Stephen Colbert, Jimmie Kimmel, Nelly, Darius Rucker, and former Rams player Isaac Bruce,” Thompson explains. Celebrity impersonators from Las Vegas will pay tribute to Cher, Tina Turner and other icons. A lip reader, body artist and fashion sketch artist will be on hand to amuse partygoers. Guests at a higher ticket level will have unlimited access to VIP lounges. The Diva Bubble Lounge for women features makeup artists, hair stylists, champagne and other treats. The Whiskey Lounge is a deluxe man cave with hearty drinks, hand-rolled cigars and a gaming table. Guests at the highest ticket level also are eligible to win a luxurious indulgence from Neiman Marcus.
“Wings helps so many families,” Thompson says. “The Social Butterfly Bash gives our supporters a chance to channel their inner celebrity. It’s a fun-filled night they’ll never forget.”
Photo: Bill Barrett
Pictured: Event partners Jennifer Koman of Koman Properties and Allen Barber of Neiman Marcus; Not pictured: Sam Foxman of Evntiv
[Social Butterfly Bash, benefiting BJC’s Wings pediatric hospice and palliative care program, takes place Oct. 18 at St. Louis City Hall. Tickets start at $100, with VIP packages available. For more information, call 314.953.1662 or visit friendsofwings.org.]
