Large white spheres hung from the ceiling of the Superdome created a celestial ambiance for “Moonlight & Miracles” benefiting Ochsner Health System on November 8, 2019. Dr. David Margolin and Dr. Bobby Rodwig were this year’s Miracle Makers. The event was Chaired by Gayle Benson with the Rault Family.
This year’s theme, “A World of Hope,” was captured by several video productions. Following the welcoming remarks made by Gayle Benson and President and CEO Warner Thomas, “A World of Hope” video narrated by Carl Sagan was presented. Guests also received a glimpse of a “day-in-the-life” of Ochsner clinicians and patients who receive care at the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
A 2016 Miracle Maker, Daniel Allemond, was presented to speak by Thomas; Allemond is a pediatric cancer survivor who just completed an Ironman Triathlon. Jessica Huneycutt, New Orleans Saints Yoga Instructor, recounted her breast cancer journey and the impact that her Ochsner care team made in her recovery. Loving tributes to Dr. Daniel Margolin, Senior Physician, Colon and Rectal Surgery, and Dr. Bobby Rodwig, Senior Physician, Pathology Medical Director, were made by Dr. Brian Moore and Dr. Charles Whitlow.
Johnny Lopez of Perfect Presentations was the lead decorator. Centerplate provided a three-course meal that was paired with Chateau St. Michelle wines. Guests were treated to red carpet photos and a Wheatly Vodka ice luge. Miles Clements, representing the Rault Family, who also serves as Ochsner Foundation Board Chairman, pulled the winning raffle ticket on stage for the winner of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan.
Guests danced the night away to the sounds of Party on the Moon. Ronnie Lamarque dazzled the audience with his rendition of “All the Way” by Frank Sinatra. The evening’s program concluded with a Cyr Wheel performance by Elan Artists. More than $1.5 million was raised this year toward vital funding for innovative treatment solutions.
Event at a Glance
What: “Moonlight & Miracles,” benefiting Ochsner Health System
When: Saturday, November 8, 2019
Where: Mercedes-Benz Superdome
President & CEO Warner Thomas, Rene Doucet, Mary and Foundation Board Chairman Miles Clements
Bonnie Rault with Dr. Dennis and Maria Kay
Dr. Brian Moore with Lori and Steve Ballard
Dr. Renee Raymond and Mike Hulefeld
Jeanette and Chad Landry with Dr. Zoe Larned