2014 Sparkles Brunch Program
Transcription
2014 Sparkles Brunch Program
It’s YOUR Time 4th Annual MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Saturday, May 3rd 11:30am-1:00pm The Villagio 10901 Braes Bend Drive Houston, Texas 77071 May 3, 2014 I am elated to have the opportunity to welcome everyone to the 4th Annual Mother’s Heart Conference and Brunch. This annual fundraiser helps to give voice to couples who are faced with infertility, miscarriages, and/or delayed parenting. I am grateful for God’s wisdom and divine timing, to honor those families who did not give up on their heart’s desire, endured challenges, and are now testaments of faith in our community. After enduring a difficult journey to motherhood, it was a true blessing to recognize the need to support women of similar plights. Today, our twin girls are seven years old and my pain has been transformed into a passionate organization. Sparkles of Life Inc. is so proud to stand together to celebrate Mothers and Mothers-at-Heart in an inspiring uplifting ambiance, a necessity for stronger families in the future. Through strategic programming, we will offer education, emotional, spiritual, and now financial support for those who are building a family. To all of our guests and sponsors, we thank you for your prayers and generous contributions to make this celebration a success today. Sparkles of Life Inc. encourages families to stay the course for their family building journey and you have partnered with them today by your attendance. Special thanks to our presenters for providing the leading technology and education on infertility and family building choices. Special thanks to all of the 2014 Board Members for working so tirelessly on this event. What an amazing group of women you are and I am humbled – to serve as the founder. Thank you for recognizing the importance of families and their health related struggles and thank you for all of the hard work that you have done to ensure that this be a successful event. Rhonda Lewis-Nwosu Founder 2014 Sparkles Program Margo Hickman Margo Hickman is proud to serve as the Theatre Arts Teacher at Jack Yates Senior High School and is a proud Alumnus of the famed Crimson and Gold. She has led her students to District Championships in UIL One Act Play 2009 and 2010 and is excited that the award-winning theatre company advanced to Regional’s in UIL One Act Play for 2013. Welcome Poetry “I Am Special” It’s YOUR Time Blessing Brunch Video Presentation Introduction of Guest Speaker Speaker Rhonda Nwosu Rachel & Raquel Margo Hickman Jo August Ral’s Fine Catering Rhonda Nwosu Margo Hickman Mariah Huq Awards and Presentations Rhonda Nwosu Acknowledgements Rhonda Nwosu Closing Rhonda Nwosu 2014 Sparkles Keynote Speaker Mariah Huq Mariah Huq is the multifaceted former news anchor and producer, and COO of Jewels and Jem, multicultural children’s bedding and pajama line. Mariah is also the co-creator, producer, and co-star of Bravo’s new hit series “Married to Medicine.” To date, Mariah Huq's show has garnered the highest Nielsen ratings on the network with 2.7 million viewers for a freshman series. @iluvmariah 2014 Sparkles Woman of Courage Sheryl Harris Howard Sheryl Harris Howard was born in Swainsboro, Georgia which is where she met and married the love of her life Dwight D. Howard. She is the proud mother of three children: TaShanda, Dwight D. Howard II, and Jahaziel. She is the grandmother of seven beautiful grandchildren. Sheryl believes in family and that the foundation for family is God first. Her love for Christ is expressed through ministering the Word of God to the hearts of others. Sheryl nurtures this love through her membership at Harvest Rain Church International of Fairburn, Georgia. 2014 Sparkles Mother’s Heart Award Loretta Nwosu Loretta Nwosu exemplifies a Caring Heart to her family and the country of Nigeria because of her unstoppable effort to improve the life of children! She is the mother of three children, Ral Nwosu, the late Ona Stella Nwosu, and Oby Imoh. She is the proud grandmother of seven children (Adamma, Vanessa, Chidi Jr., Raquel, Rachel, Ryan, and Melody) and the mother to thousands who have attended her school. In 1976, she returned from her studies in Scotland and founded the Loral International Schools. Her dream to bring out the best in children started with humble beginnings, establishing of the Nursery and Primary Schools. Today, Loral has expanded into five schools on two campuses with nearly 500 staff, namely: * The Nursery and Primary Schools Day, Festac Town (1978) * The Secondary School, Day, Festac Town (2005) * The Nursery and Primary Schools, Day and Boarding, Igbesa (2002) * The Secondary School, Boarding, Igbesa (1994) * The Cambridge A/Level College, Boarding, Igbesa Loretta is a trailblazer in her own rite and was recently named by Education Ion Magazine as one of the top four private schools in Festac Town, Nigeria. Her mission and commitment remains the same, to mold the tender life of a child from nursery through primary to secondary levels by developing them into men and women of strong character and personality. After almost forty years, she has set a platform to continue as a leading light in the education industry, spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, and social life of a student. This proven path equips students to successfully compete in any area of life. Loral has maintained an unbroken record of successes in the Senior School Certificate Examination, The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Examinations, The London Cambridge 'O' Level Exams, SAT and TOEFL. Loral students are noted for consistently gaining easy access to renowned Higher Institutions all over the world. Oletha Jackson is the sole expression of a Mother’s Heart to her family and all those she has mentored in the beauty industry for over forty years. She is the mother of two sons, Kalenn and Monsieur Walzer. She is the proud grandmother of a granddaughter, Jessica and grandson Jordan Walzer and has a great grandchild on the way. Oletha Jackson Oletha has made her mark in Houston as a Licensed Cosmetologist and then as a Cosmetology Instructor. She is currently retired. Her greatest legacy is within her own family, where she has consistently supported and encouraged her sons to live their “Best Life Now!” She made an indelible impression on both of them that will last for generations to come. As a child, when Monsieur asked the simple question, “Why do you have holes in your clothes?” She told him, “I wear holes in mine so you and your brother will NEVER have too!” As a result of her love and unwavering support, Monsieur has followed in her footsteps establishing his own beauty brand, The MW Face Makeup Company that provides services for all occasions. Recently, The MW Face was awarded a contract to service the Southwest Regions with L’Oreal Cosmetics. Monsieur credits all of his success to his Mother’s Heart! 2014 Sparkles Impact Report Professional Woman It’s people like you that keep fires burning. Our hearts are weary, but we keep going. When you least expect it, God place people in your life to make your valley’s meaning and to remind you of purpose. Thank you all you do! 2012-2013 Vivere Garden of Life Recipient This organization has provided me with hope when I felt all was lost. I met many other wonderful ladies and couples who shared in my experiences. I no longer feel alone, but like I am part of a new family. Rhonda has personally helped me to remain positive and deepen my faith and relationship with God. Brunch Attendee Just note to say how much I enjoyed the brunch last Saturday. How wonderful to know an organization exists to support those who are on this journey. It took 8 years to conceive our daughter through IVF; now she's 12 and in middle school. Back then I had no one to talk to, short of our doctor, my mother and our Pastor, and he couldn't fully understand. Thank you Rhonda for following your heart and birthing this awesome ministry. Sparkles Mom to Be “I am so grateful that organizations like this exist. Having a baby of my own has been a dream of mine my whole life, and I know that I am not alone in that dream. Thank you for making family's dreams comes true!” Physician, Neonatologist “For over 15 years, I have watched Rhonda commit to and nurture a passion that started as a seed and ultimately fulfilled her calling in forming Sparkles of Life. I often struggle with what words of comfort I could offer to parents experiencing this sort of loss. She is passionate about the community she serves in and because of her own journey and challenges.” Professional Woman “I am not a parent by choice. Until I met Rhonda, I never understood or gave much thought to the plight of women who struggle to conceive or give birth. She has given me, and no doubt hundreds of other family members and friends of moms-to-be, new insight and empathy.” Professional Woman “Sparkles was the additional support; the wind beneath our wings when we thought we couldn't fly again! Praise God that we kept the fight and that Sparkles wouldn't allow us to give up or in. We now have two healthy sons! Even now Sparkles is staying connected and reminding us that there is nothing impossible with God.” Professional Woman "I'm 4 months pregnant. Praise God. What a journey. What a journey. We talked much about this journey. You were a true inspiration and encouragement. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you...." Debbie Festari 2014 Sparkles Honorees Kandi Eastman Krista Bourne, President Houston/Gulf Coast Region Verizon Wireless Dr. Joanie Hare, OB/GYN Houston Perinatal Associates Kandi Eastman, Radio Personality/Announcer Majic 102.1 FM Debbie Festari, Owner of Festari for Men and Philanthropist “Una Notte In Italia” Kristyn Page, Director Diversity Strategies MACYS Kysha Reid, Executive Producer Fox 26 News Barbara Curtis, Sr. Director Lakewood Church Karen Johnson, Mother of 7-time NFL All Pro Houston Texans Andre Johnson and CEO/Founder of the P.A.C.E. Moms Dr. Docia Rudley, First Lady of Texas Southern University and Thurgood Marshall School of Law Professor Hawa Stinson, FNP Lead Family Nurse Practitioner Bee Busy Wellness Center Wellness Center Lashica Salter-Velazquez, PHR Market Human Resource Manager Wal-Mart 2014 Sparkles’ Honorees 2014 Sparkles Conference Speakers Katy Encalade Egg Donor Solutions, LLC Katy Encalade, Assistant Children's Minister. Katy is a great example of how your passion can grow into ministry. First as a volunteer, and now as a staff member, Katy's work with children is second only to her husband Blake in importance. She and Blake are expecting their second child. Katy has over 5 years experience with children's Bible classes and graduated from Dallas Baptist University with a Bachelor's Degree in Business and Psychology. She is a sales director with Mary Kay and volunteers at a crisis pregnancy center, Real Options for Women. Katy counsels women who face an unplanned pregnancy and she speaks at local middle schools and churches about abstinence. Brent, Candace, Katy, and David serve along with many talented, well-trained volunteer ministers. LesLee Murphy LCSW Leslee Murphy, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in women's health issues including infertility, depression and anxiety, pregnancy loss, post partum mood disorders, adoption, and high-risk pregnancy. Leslee also provides evaluations and consultations in the field of third-party reproduction, including oocyte donation, embryo donation, donor insemination, and gestational carrier arrangements. She has provided counseling, education, and support to individuals, families and groups for over 20 years. Leslee's expertise in the field of fertility stems from a unique combination of both personal and professional experience. Dr. Pat Akindude Lunch Date with Jesus Dr. Pat Akindude is the president of Lunch Date with Jesus, a daily prayer line and Empowering Ministry Outreach. Pat leads Sabbath with Jesus services on Saturdays. She is an Author of Empowering Life Skills for Success and Prayer that gets answers; many have been helped with her writing and teaching. She is a renowned National and International speaker. Dr. Daniel Williams Houston Fertility Institute Medical Director Male Panel Moderator Dr. Williams received both his undergraduate degree in biology and his medical degree from The University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. He completed residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at King-Drew Medical Center in Los Angeles and completed his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at UCLA/Cedars Sinai Medical Centers. Following his training, Dr. Williams joined the faculty at Washington University School of Medicine as an associate professor and the medical director of the IVF program. He then served as a professor of obstetrics and gynecology and the medical director for the Center for Reproductive Health at The University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. Dr. Williams is the recipient of numerous teaching awards and has also been repeatedly named one of the Best Doctors in America. In 2009, Dr. Williams joined Houston Fertility Institute where he serves as the Director of the Egg Donor Program. He is a fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as reproductive endocrinology-infertility. Betty Driver Owner, BB Health & Wellness Boutique Betty Driver is the founder of BB Health and Wellness Boutique, a healthy lifestyle product and service company which also offers an array of products online. Betty founded BB health and Wellness Boutique after many successful years as a medical and pharmaceutical sales representative. As she surveyed the current choices in healthcare, she saw there were no companies that offered concierge service with a personal touch for individuals. The boutique focuses on healthy living, weight loss, weight management, and bolstering shape wear accessories. Betty is currently in the midst of launching BB Sexy Couture, a clothing line dedicated to women; inspired by working mothers. Betty resides in Houston with her children Brielle and CJ. 2014 Sparkles Families Napoleon & Syretta Miller Baby name: Kennedy Simone Date of Birth: 10/02/13 Birth weight: 7lbs 2oz Now that I am a MOM again, I am reminded to love unconditionally and to enjoy every moment. It was well worth the wait because she came in Gods timing. The best part of becoming a parent is watching the development of our kids each day. We are happy to give God all the glory because we are so thankful that he blessed us with a healthy baby. Tiffany Gardner Baby Name: Isaiah Ezekiel Date of Birth: February 21, 2014 I gave birth to beautiful Isaiah Ezekiel Gardner on February 21st. I've been praising God since his birth and just today heard your voice saying, "Delay is not denial." My journey had very difficult moments. And the Lord sent you and Sparkles of Life in my life just when I needed it. Thank you. You and your work truly made an impact and a difference. Tamala Groce Baby name: Hudson Elijah Date of Birth: 8/14/13 Birth weight: 8 lbs 13 in Although I look forward to the time that Hudson sleeps through the night, it is still one of my greatest pleasures when he smiles sweetly up at me as I lift him from his crib in the wee hours of the morning. It is as if I am his whole world and he is mine. Having been blessed with two babies via IVF, seeing them together, smiling at one another is unspeakable joy. I give God the glory because he blessed me with a husband who loves me. Even though he definitely wanted children, he married me knowing that I had infertility challenges. Seeing him with our two boys fills my heart beyond measure and lets me know it was worth the wait. If you still on the journey, I am here to tell you there’s hope – I was 43 when I had my son Holland (my first child) and 46 when I had Hudson. I thank God for the experience of pregnancy, for healthy babies, and for the honor and responsibility of rearing two little boys on the path to manhood. Parenting is not a task to be taken lightly, but I am overjoyed at the opportunity. One of the best parts of becoming a parent is seeing yourself or your spouse reflected in your child either by their looks or mannerisms or even by something they say or do. Saturday morning is one of my favorite times as the whole family watches TV and hangs out in Mommy and Daddy’s room simply enjoying being together. Josephine and Kenneth Emakepose Baby name: Ethan (Jojo 'd' Boy) Evan (Kenny 'd' Boy) Date of Birth: 03-15-2014 Birth weight: 4.9 lbs and 5.6 lbs Now that I am a MOM, I feel fulfilled looking at my own children in my arms. It was well worth the wait because God has proved himself as God by blessing us with 2 children at a time. The best part of becoming a parent is feeling the warmth and love of your own children. We are happy to give God all the glory because He has honored his words in our mouth by answering our prayers. If you are still on the journey, don't quit. Keep trusting God and He will prove himself as God by blessing you with your own children. Mark & Amanda Cervas Baby name: Jaxon (Jax) Myles Jase Brayden Date of Birth: 3-6-14 Birth weight: 4 lb 10 oz and 4 lb 8 oz Now that I am a MOM, I am overwhelmed with emotion. I'm so happy to be a mother. It's like everyone says "The best feeling ever". It was well worth the wait because I appreciate the life of a child more and the blessing God gave me. The best part of being a parent is that you have unconditional love for someone. We are happy to give God all the glory because He has given me strength to battle through and not give up trying. Aaron & Hannah Bunker Baby name: Cason and Grace Nickname: Cason and Gracie Date of Birth: 12/09/2013 Cason and Gracie were well worth the wait because when I look at them, I see the exact people that God had planned for our family. To look at them and know that all the pain and heartache led us to our children. I wouldn't change a single thing on our path to our babies. We give God all the glory because he orchestrated every single note in our journey to them-from giving us the $25,000 to pay our adoption through faithful givers, to proving our needs once they came home with us- it's all been a part of God's incredible plan for our family. JAI JONES 832-368-6604 [email protected] WWW.JAIDED325.COM Catherine Burnley Now that I am a MOM, I feel like my whole world has changed for the better. I have a little person to be greater for, work harder for, and be a good example for. It was well worth the wait because babies are such blessings whether a family receives them naturally or by adoption. The best part of becoming a parent is being able to love, shape your child, and provide the best environment for him or her to grow and become his or her own special little individual. We are happy to give God all the glory because I was told a while ago that I could not have children and the lord blessed me to be able to have my little blessing. If you are still on the journey, no matter how hard it may seem, God does not make mistakes. He moves all the right pieces to the right places and closes doors to open greater ones. Stay encouraged and keep the faith because although God’s time is not our time, he is always on time. Jason & Shalya White Baby name: Jordan Reylan & Cameron Caden Date of Birth: September 27, 2013 Birth weight: 4lb 13oz and 3lb 15oz Now that I am a MOM, I would not trade it for the world. This is what I was meant to do. It was well worth the wait because these two little miracles were specially made just for us. God was preparing us to be the parents that these two little guys need. The best part of becoming a parent is that the all consuming, unconditional love that we have for our boys provides me with a glimpse of just how much God loves us. And WE know that God loves us even more than that. We can't even wrap our minds around just how much God loves us. We are happy to give God all the glory because He answered our very specific prayers for twins. He sustained us during the dark days when we didn't understand why us and now He provides for us like only He can. If you are still on the journey, pray without ceasing. God is listening. We are witnesses that He will answer. "Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, "Go throw yourself into the sea," and does not doubt in their heart, but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:23-24. Our faith in God is stronger because of this journey and we can't wait to tell our boys their story. Last year, I attended the Sparkles Christmas gathering. You gave us each a Christmas ornament as a gift. I specifically asked for two because we were believing and praying for twins. That night my husband and I wrote notes to our babies to let them know that we had faith that they would be with us by the next Christmas. The last picture is of them on Christmas night with those two ornaments in between them. God is so good and faithful! Gail Mathis 713-269-3746 Designed by @sparklesoflife @rhondanwosu [email protected] rg