Reston, Virginia - The Medical Care for Children Partnership (MCCP) celebrated 15 years of providing health care for the medically uninsured children of Fairfax County at its 15th Anniversary Awards Gala. The October 27, 2001 event, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel Reston, featured an awards ceremony to recognize Dr. Nathan Lee, DDS, a long time provider of dental care for MCCP children; Mr. Richard Liggan, a retiree who sets aside a portion of his social security to help children in need; Salomon Smith Barney, a significant corporate contributor and advocate for the MCCP; and Anthony H. Griffin, Fairfax County Executive, whose support as a county official as well as a private donor has been a crucial factor in the program’s success. Del Walters, investigative reporter for WJLA-TV and gala master of ceremonies described the County Executive’s award: “County Executive Anthony H. Griffin is saluted for providing the vision and leadership to ensure that all members of the community are treated with dignity and respect. Thanks in large part to his dedication and commitment, the children of Fairfax County are ensured a healthy and a brighter tomorrow. For all that you have done, we honor you and wish you continued success.”
Ken and Alice Starr, co-hosts of the gala recognized three American heroes: Edward L. Stinnette, Chief, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, Dr. Thom A. Mayer, Chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Fairfax Hospital and Air Force Master Sergeant Noel Sepulveda. Said Del Walters, , they are ”three American heroes who worked tirelessly to rescue and save men and women at the Pentagon on a solemn day that changed our lives forever - - September 11, 2001.” Del Walters stated, “For service to his fellow man, you are honored for setting a standard of excellence and compassion. Your outstanding accomplishments have made our lives better and set stirring examples for others to follow. Our country and all mankind will always need people like you whose energy, strength and courage reveal our country's greatest potential. For all that you have done, we honor you and offer our heartfelt thanks.”
Ken Starr read a message from Secretary of Health and Human Service Tommy Thompson, co-chair of the gala, who had to attend to other obligations that evening. The Secretary’s message to those in attendance was one of congratulations: “Each of you in attendance tonight is to be commended for your leadership in the community. … You have chosen to ensure that all of the children in Fairfax County receive the care they need in order to reach their full potential. When you provide for the health of a child, you uplift the entire family.”
His message went on to say, “No parent should face the choice between health care, buying groceries, or paying the rent. Thanks in large part to your dedication and commitment; families across Fairfax County will be empowered to take advantage of every opportunity. Your efforts to support this vital endeavor will make an important difference, and for that you have my profound gratitude.”
Former President Bill Clinton sent a message that read, “ Childen are our most profound responsibility. Only when our young people are provided with the best care possible can we truly say we are prepared for the challenges of the future.” He congratulated the MCCP, writing, “The MCCP has set a powerful example of leadership in this vital endeavor. By combining the resources of government, health care providers, and the business community to ensure that the children of Fairfax County receive the comprehensive medical care they need and deserve, you are helping to create for t hem a brighter future and a stronger, more caring America. Your efforts stand as testament to how much we can accomplish when we all work together to achieve our common goals.”
Del Walters concluded the evening’s comments with great introspection on the evening in light of current events. He confided, “Sometimes when Carolyn and I wrap up a story we look at each and we say ‘That was depressing.’ This evening is the type of thing that more people need to see on the news, because it shows people that America is fighting back and returning to normal.”
Said Sandra Stiner Lowe, Executive Director, Fairfax County Office of Partnerships, “We are deeply grateful to the corporations and individuals who have made the decision to come out and support our gala. The MCCP is blessed because people come together from both sides of the political aisle and from every sector of the community to provide health care to uninsured children. It was an inspiring evening - - filled with the best the human spirit has to offer.”
