Nearly 20 million children in the U.S. have been affected by a behavioral disorder, putting them at a higher risk for academic failure, substance use and chronic problems that can carry into adulthood. MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) is making great strides in child and adolescent psychiatry and will highlight these advancements at its upcoming signature event, Storybook Ball.
Now in its 19th year, Storybook Ball is one of Boston’s pinnacle events, bringing supporters, advocates and medical professionals together to honor pediatric care at MGHfC. On Saturday, Oct. 13, at The Castle in Back Bay, 500 guests will help raise nearly $2 million. Since its inception, the Storybook Ball has raised over $26 million for pediatric care.
“For children and their families, issues with behavioral care can be so hard to navigate,” says Storybook Ball co-chair Jennifer Dolins. “The work being done at MGHfC is not only providing real solutions, it’s providing real hope.”
The number of children impacted by behavioral health issues is significant—more than the number of children with cancer and diabetes combined in the U.S. While providing care to these children and adolescents is critical in determining the course of their lives, the fact remains that the majority of children and their families do not have access to behavioral health care.
“We at MGHfC are dedicated to transforming behavioral health care for kids,” says Timothy Wilens, MD, chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. “We believe that the train to adulthood leaves the station only once, so we owe future generations the chance to lead their happiest and healthiest lives through innovative prevention and early intervention strategies.”
This year’s Storybook Ball, inspired by the playful tale of “101 Dalmatians,” will tell the story of a strong community and sense of family through black and white visuals inspired by the beloved puppies. Rafanelli Events once again brings its magical vision to The Castle venue, transporting guests across the pond to the iconic streets of London. With a bold nod to “Mod,” the evening surrounds guests with spots, spots and more spots, highlighting the famous British look that had a strong influence on style and culture.
During cocktail hour, guests can play the event’s signature carnival booth games to take home prizes provided by generous local businesses. Lucky winners this year will enjoy items from Blank Label, bloomingdale’s, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Mereville, North River Outfitter, Oliver Thomas, PUMA, Rue La La, Shreve, Crump & Low and Tuscan Kitchen.
During dinner presented by The Catered Affair, guests will also have the chance to bid on one-of-a-kind treasures in the form of live auction packages offered by local partners. One extravagance includes an unforgettable night in Boston for four couples, beginning with a cooking class and chef’s dinner at Tuscan Kitchen, followed by an overnight stay at the stunning Boston Harbor Hotel’s John Adams Presidential Suite. Nearly 5,000 square feet, with every amenity possible, this newly renovated suite is luxury at its finest with striking and gracious details that can be pondered while enjoying the open-air terrace with sweeping views of Boston Harbor.
The MGHfC Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry works with more than 100 pediatric psychiatrists and psychologists spanning over 10 distinct clinical and research programs. With robust state-of-the-art research and training programs, it empowers mental health professionals to understand the causes, symptoms and neurologic, psychosocial and genetic underpinnings of pediatric mental health disorders. In both inpatient and outpatient settings, MGHfC provides the highest standards of patient and family-centered care to help bring relief and hope to those who suffer.
For tickets and more information, visit storybookballboston.org.