The Slidell Auditorium was filled with magic and joy as Hugs4Kids, in collaboration with Ochsner | SMH, hosted the “I Sea You Walking the Runway! Pediatric Fashion Show” on Friday, July 7, 2023.
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The event, which took place from 6 pm to 8 pm, was a heartwarming spectacle of courage, resilience, and dreams coming true. It was a night where the runway became a platform for pediatric patients to shine, to celebrate their strength, and to remind everyone of their unwavering spirit.
The auditorium and stage were transformed into a vibrant underwater scenery, setting the stage for a night of enchantment. Kids ran around with excitement while others waited in line for their turn to get dressed up for the fashion show. The air was filled with anticipation and joy as each child prepared to walk the runway.
Chris Sperling, the Founder and President of Hugs4Kids, expressed his aspirations for the future of the event. “We would like to keep doing the event bigger and better, and continue to grow and help more kids,” he said. Chris was also very grateful for all the sponsors and volunteers who made the event possible. “This is all put on by sponsors and without our sponsors we wouldn’t be able to do this so in the future we need more sponsors,” he added.
Don Shea, a volunteer for the event and a member of the Krewe of Dionysus, shared his thoughts on the event. “It’s a wonderful and warm thing to do to bring families together,” he said, reflecting the sentiment that echoed throughout the evening.
Hugs4Kids, an organization that began with a serendipitous encounter and a little girl’s dream, has grown into a beacon of hope for children facing life’s toughest challenges. The organization’s mission, inspired by the late Lamika Downs, is to bring joy and empowerment to young patients through annual fashion shows.
The “I Sea You Walking the Runway!” event was a testament to this mission. The young models, all pediatric patients, walked the runway with grace and confidence, their smiles lighting up the room. The audience, moved by their spirit, cheered and applauded, creating an atmosphere of love and support.
The event also served as a reminder of Lamika’s enduring legacy. Her belief in the power of dreams continues to fuel Hugs4Kids’ commitment to supporting children in their battles. Every smile, every moment of joy, and every dream realized at the event was a tribute to her radiant spirit.
Hugs4Kids’ collaboration with Ochsner | SMH for this event further amplified their impact. Together, they not only put on a remarkable fashion show but also sent a powerful message of unity and compassion.
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that the event had left an indelible mark on everyone present. The transformative power of dreams fulfilled was evident in the smiles on the faces of the young patients and the sense of hope that filled the room.
Hugs4Kids extends its heartfelt thanks to all who were a part of this special night. The organization continues to invite everyone to join them on this meaningful journey, where every action taken is inspired by the indelible impression left by Lamika. Together, we can provide comfort, joy, and the realization of dreams to children who need it most.
In the words of Hugs4Kids, “Thank you for being a part of our story and for helping us bring smiles and dreams to life!” As we look forward to more such events, we remember that every child deserves a chance to dream, to hope, and to smile.
Dr. Brad Ictech is a distinguished sociological social psychologist whose pioneering research examines the complex interplay between digital technologies and human social interactions, with a specific focus on the nuanced realms of digital communication, online gaming communities, and the sociological impacts thereof. Leveraging insights from the complex interplay between digital communication technologies and human interactions, Dr. Ictech applies his research to digital marketing by crafting strategies that resonate on a personal level, enhancing engagement and fostering meaningful connections between brands and their online audience.
