August 30, 2019

BALTIMORE, MD (August 30) - Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital (MWPH) is thrilled to announce plans for the 7th Annual Storybook Gala. On Thursday night, gala chair Alison Cohen revealed the "Mary Poppins" theme and noted that the event will be held on May 9, 2020 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel. Cohen also shared that Ruth's Chris Steak House will return for a fifth year as the gala's Presenting Sponsor.

"I'm thrilled to return as Storybook Gala Chair this year," said Cohen, who is Vice President of Priority 1 Automotive Group. "Each year, we raise the bar on our expectations for fundraising and each year we raise the bar on creating a fun and exciting night for our guests. Mary Poppins was always a favorite book and movie of mine, and so it will be "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" to work with our committee and staff to bring it to life. It will be a special night, and it's all to support MWPH's mission to support the health and independence of children."

Last year's "Alice in Wonderland"-themed gala was attended by more than 600 guests and raised $345,000 (net). Overall, the Storybook Gala has raised nearly $1.6 million in six years. Other highlights of the 2019 Gala included a meaningful patient story, as well as words shared by Lieutenant Governor Boy Rutherford, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, and Baltimore City Mayor Jack Young. Additionally, hundreds of children's books were collected for a book drive, sponsored by Priority 1 Automotive Group.

"It's wonderful to say that our gala committee is working on plans for the 7th annual Storybook Gala," said President & CEO, Sheldon Stein. "Their dedication along with the efforts of our staff and the amazing support of our gala guests has greatly affected the hospital's ability to return children to health and independence. We're also grateful that Alison Cohen has returned for a second year as gala chair- her enthusiasm and leadership have been instrumental to the gala's success."

The 2020 Storybook Gala will include dinner and dancing, a silent auction, live auction, "Fund-A-Wish" appeal and much more fun with its "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" theme. Community events leading up to the May gala will raise excitement and support for the major event. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to remain updated on Gala happenings. Tickets will go on sale in January. To sponsor, please call 410-578-5315.

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About Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital: Where Children go to Heal and Grow

Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital provides family-focused, integrated care to children with serious, chronic or complex medical needs. Since 1922, the hospital has helped children heal from illness and injury, and now treats nearly 9,000 patients each year. The 102-bed hospital is a jointly owned affiliate of The University of Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine and has locations in Baltimore City, Prince George's County and in the community.