Friends of Sheba Celebrate in Los Angeles

Nearly 350 guests attended the annual Friends of Sheba Women of Achievement Luncheon in Los Angeles on October 15, 2009, in support of the Sigi & Marilyn Ziering Center for Newborn Screening. Through the generosity of the Sheba Los Angeles chapter, all babies born in Israel are now tested at the Ziering Center for treatable genetic diseases, preventing immeasurable suffering, disability and premature death.

Director General Emeritus and Israel Prize Honoree Professor Mordechai Shani was present to help recognize extraordinary women who embody the spirit of giving, compassion and vision, all virtues on which Sheba Medical Center was founded. This year's "Women of Achievement" included Dr. Lidia Gabis, director of Sheba's Weinberg Child Development Center; and Kathy Ireland, former supermodel turned mogul, and the new International Ambassador for the new Friends of Sheba campaign, entitled "Holyland Heroes" (TM). Additionally, Marjorie Pressman, a founding member of the Friends of Sheba in Los Angeles, was honored with a Lifetime of Achievement Award; and a special tribute was presented in memory of the late Frances Brody for her years of service and generosity benefiting Sheba's Children's Hospital.

Pictured here are event co-chairs Myrtle Sitowitz (at left) and Edna Naftaly (at right) flagging luncheon honorees Dr. Lidia Gabis and Kathy Ireland. The second photo shows Kathy Ireland with (at left) Prof. Mordechai Shani and (at right) Friends of Sheba Executive Director Jack Saltzberg.