Sunday morning, April 26: A chance to help build a dedicated children’s hospital in Gainesville

On Sunday, April 26, 2009, from 8 to 10 AM,  The Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society at UF´s College of Medicine is hosting its first ever Trot for Tots, a 5K run/walk to raise money for the Sebastian Ferrero Foundation.

A healthy, happy 3 year old, Sebastian Ferrero died at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida in October 2007 as a result of a medication overdose followed by a series of preventable medical errors.

Sebastian’s parents, Horst and Luisa Ferrero, formed the Sebastian Ferrero Foundation to advocate and fundraise for a state-of-the-art, full service children’s hospital in Gainesville while promoting excellence in patient safety and insuring that all families are treated with compassion, courtesy, and dignity.

Born from their worst nightmare come true, the Ferreros efforts have met with widespread community support from parents, local leaders, and physicians. In November 2008 the Foundation raised nearly $1 million dollars towards their goal at the Noche de Gala, a fundraising benefit at Tioga Town Center featuring flamenco dancers, mariachi players, dinner, dancing, a live and silent auction, and a packed house.

Kickball tournaments, hop-a-thons, and bowling nights have also been held throughout the community in support of the Foundation’s ultimate goal of building a standalone, full-service children’s hospital in Gainesville.

And on April 26, The Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society at UF’s College of Medicine iis hosting its inaugural 5K run/walk, the Trot for Tots, with all proceeds to benefit the Sebastian Ferrero Foundation.

The cost to participate is $15 for students, $20 for non-students, and includes food, music, party and a t-shirt.

The race will begin at the commuter lot on Gale Lemerand Drive and all proceeds will benefit the Foundation. To register online please visit www.sebastianferrero.org

For more information contact the Foundation at 352-333-2579 or email info@sebastianferrero.org

About Coleen DeGroff