Shriners Hospitals for Children® – Lexington recently hosted a Fall Masquerade Ball for patients and their guests.
Before the ball, volunteer hair stylists were waiting to create the perfect hairstyles, while Paul Mitchell Salon provided nail and makeup services. A large assortment of formal dresses, jewelry and purses were available at the Boutique. There were also suits, shirts and ties for the gentlemen to choose from.
Eighteen-year-old James Ryan Simpson (picutred left) missed going to his high school prom because of cost and had to make a choice between prom and graduation expenses. “I knew my mom couldn’t afford both, so I chose graduation,” Ryan said. “I was very happy to find out Shriners Hospital was having a dance like the prom while I was a patient. I had my picture taken and danced with my date Bethany. This was my senior prom.”
Courtney Vargo, 12, (pictured right) had hair, nails and makeup done and then found the perfect dress in the Boutique. As she posed for a picture, her mother Julie wiped away a tear saying, “She is radiant.Thank you so much for giving her this opportunity.”
No one sparkled more than Olivia Rice (pictured left). She arrived with her hair already curled, so she quickly got in line for nails and makeup. She was worried about her formal dress, but smiled when she saw it. “It is perfect for me,” she said. After quick trip to the Boutique, she emerged with a necklace and bracelet. “I’m ready,” said Olivia, “Let’s go dance.”
"Staff, volunteers, parents and patients always have a great time,” said Tim Cupp, director of rehabilitation. “This type of event contributes to the atmosphere of well-being for our patients.”
Daughters of the Nile and local Shrine clubs donated pizza, sodas, chips and cookies, and music was provided by a local DJ. No one wanted the dance to end.