Dr. Joe and April Niamtu Chair 2016 Easter Seals Gala
It was my (and my wife’s) honor to be the chairpersons for the 2016 Easter Seals annual gala.
A pre gala event was hosted at the Positive Vibe Cafe (a renown organization in itself) and Dr. Joe and April were guest bartenders. It was an honor to be acknowledged by the Richmond Times-Dispatch for Volunteer week.
Music was provided by Vertical Dimension and Joe sat in with the group on “Move it on Over”, thankfully no ears were permanently damaged.
The gala event was April 23 at the beautiful Dover Hall. The sold out event consisted of great patrons and benefactors of the greater Richmond area and they truly stepped up to the plate in donations and auction items to support Easter Seals services.
April and I presented our experience and perspective of being parents of two sons with severe disabilities. Although everyone can appreciate the heartbreak and challenges of having a disability in the family, most people have no idea of the emotional, physical, financial and social impact of dealing with a disabled family member. Our presentation was both happy and sad, as is the experience of having disabled children. We ended the presentation with discussion of the unique, exceptional and unconditional love that these children provide.
It was a great evening and we want to personally thank the Easter Seals staff and all those who supported the event.
Nothing feels better than giving back.
Left to right: Monroe and Jill Harris, Paul and Emily Kiritsis, Joe and April Niamtu, Gilly and Lora Roberts, Rich and Joyce Johnson
Joe Niamtu, III DMD
Cosmetic Facial Surgery
Richmond, Virginia