TCCF believes that it takes a community to save a child; Celebrating 23 years of international, community service

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

It was no surprise that the 23rd Anniversary of The Caribbean Children Foundation was a roaring success. The last two anniversaries, I was honoured to host, and this year, I was able to sit back and really enjoy the festivities. The guests came dressed to impress in evening gowns, tuxedos, and suits and ties, this added to the glamorous atmosphere of the occasion.

The TCCF gala is typically a high-energy event filled with enthusiasm, excitement, and a strong sense of purpose. People attending the TCCF gala are passionate about the work that is being done. In the Caribbean, access to certain surgeries can be challenging for families, especially if they do not have the funds to pay for it. For example, surgeries for spinal problems cannot be done in the home country. In some cases, a child may require multiple surgeries, and this makes it more complex.

For this reason, TCCF has partnered with Spine Hope in Austin, Texas. The Executive Director of Spine Hope actually hosted one of TCCF Angels Kachell in her home for over a month, nourished and nurtured her while she was recovering from her surgery. Together, Spine Hope and TCCF have been able to change the lives of four Caribbean teens suffering from severe spinal deformities over the last year. All four children (Rahsaan, Isaiah, Samantha, and KachelI) have returned to their homes and are recovering well. These teens now have the opportunity to live their lives without pain and are able to now do what they have always wanted to do… live normal, confident lives.

Also in attendance was SickKIds Hospital, a lovely group of individuals who I had a chance to sit down and speak with. Through the partnership, they have been able to care for children in: Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, Antigua, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Guyana, and St. Vincent. Together, they have improved the quality of life for children who received treatment from pediatric specialists in: General Surgery, Orthopedics, Urology, Cardiovascular and Plastic Surgery over the years.

Not in attendance this year was Rodrigo Soto, Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon, CEO of Clinical Operations for the International Children’s Heart Foundation. In a heartfelt message he shared, “You need really special people to do what we do, and we have found in TCCF the special people to partner with. Our combined efforts have given a new opportunity to many kids who had no hope, but together, we make that hope come true.

This partnership must continue, because the need is huge, and we cannot turn our backs to all those who need us.”

It is acts of kindness like this that transcend the call of duty, and it is one of the reasons that TCCF garners such support from the community. Attendees are motivated by a genuine desire to make a difference, and this passion and dedication created a powerful energy in the room.

In his welcoming speech, President of TCCF Jay Brijpaul acknowledged the efforts and contributions of supporters and volunteers, and he shared his gratitude to the attendees who came together to celebrate the successes of the organization and the impact they’ve made on the community. “In 23 years, The Caribbean Children Foundation has helped to pay for 250 surgeries thanks to SickKids Hospital and the Herbie Fund, our primary partners. Over the years, the foundation has formed a lasting relationship with our partners, which has allowed us to do the work that we do.

As the saying goes, ‘It takes a community to raise a child.’ TCCF believes that it takes a community to save a child. You make up that community and we thank you very much for your continued support.”

The night featured speakers who shared inspiring stories of individuals who have benefited from TCCF’s work. These stories evoked powerful emotions and inspired attendees to contribute further, creating a positive and energetic atmosphere.

The TCCF Gala brought together people from various backgrounds, including philanthropists, business leaders, and community members. The opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals fostered a sense of community and shared purpose, which definitely added to the energy of the event.

Knowing that you are contributing to a charitable cause can be incredibly fulfilling, and attendees left the event with a sense of pride, knowing that their donations will make a difference in the lives of children and their families.