(l-r) Jack Nicklaus, Marie Osmond, Barbara Nicklaus
Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation raised more than $1.1 million, a new record, for world-class pediatric care during its annual Golden Heart Luncheon. Held at The Country Club at Mirasol on February 28, the luncheon honored Barbara Nicklaus on her 85th birthday.
The sold-out event was filled with surprises and touching moments at every turn. Marie Osmond, singer-actress and co-founder of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, gave a heartfelt and inspiring speech. Christian Guardino, a Children’s Miracle Network “Miracle Patient,” a semifinalist on America’s Got Talent, and a top contender on American Idol, delivered a soulful performance of several songs. In a touching moment, Zachary “Lucky” DeTray, a former patient of the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, made a special appearance for his dear friend Barbara. The afternoon concluded with a surprise birthday cake and happy birthday wishes from friends, family members, and her husband, Jack Nicklaus.
Jack and Barbara Nicklaus founded the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in 2004. It was founded in an effort to provide families access to the best level of pediatric health care in Palm Beach County and beyond. Raising $216 million to date, the Foundation supports Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, which has helped children from every state in the union and 119 countries. The Foundation also gives back to many other children’s health care organizations across the country and around the world.
