Tidewell Foundation holds luncheon with laughter, tears and Marilu Henner

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, has the space when you have over 600 guests attending a formal luncheon to celebrate a crystal anniversary, and Empath Tidewell Foundation's Signature Luncheon was a sell-out on March 1.

Symbolizing light, clarity, and the durability of love, the crystal is only some of what Tidewell Hospice provides to patients who are at the end of one journey and moving onto another. Together with their goal of ensuring individuals and their families receive proper care, the Tidewell Foundation is able to deliver through the help of their many sponsors, donors, volunteers and patrons.

With the vision of co-chairs Julie Delaney and Kathy Martella and their committee, the elegant event was emceed by Summer Smith. Tidewell Foundation President Delesa Morris and Empath Health President and CEO Jonathan Fleece gave remarks, and Empath's certified music therapist, Haley Verinder sang a  cover of Maroon 5's hit song, "Memories." Kelly Caldwell, President and CEO of Caldwell Trust Co., told his story about his interaction with Tidewell hospice when his dad became ill, and Joann Day-Dormeyer, the mom of Chad Day, was introduced on stage after a video about her experiences when her son was diagnosed with a brain tumor. There was a collective murmur in the room when it was announced that Chad's kitten, Hazel, was welcomed into hospice with him, and that Tidewell provides pet therapy to patients.

Effervescent, smiling, and engaging, the keynote speaker, Marilu Henner, took her place at the podium to deliver personal history about her various journeys with family members who have gone through hospice. The actress, health advocate, best-selling  author and mom of two delighted the guests with her wisdom and insight about her father's sudden and untimely death, memory and advocacy. One of only roughly 62 documented cases in the world, this dynamo has hyperthymesia which allows her to spontaneously recall personal experiences and their associated dates. Since 2019, Henner has been the spokesperson for the National Hospice and Palliative Car Organization, where she raises awareness about hospice care and the benefits it provides to patients as well as the family. She exited the stage with a standing ovation amid flashing cameras and cell phone videos.