Heartsongs Luncheon Raises More Than $64,000 for Dr. Bear’s Den

Thanks to a successful Heartsongs Luncheon, more children will benefit from the comfort of Dr. Bear’s Den, an apartment for families who travel to Washington for medical care.

The 14^th annual luncheon, held April 29 at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, raised $64,224 for the Heartsongs Luncheon Fund. Lisa Friedlander created the fund in 2001 as a tribute to Mattie J.T. Stepanek, a child poet, peacemaker, and an inspiration to all. Mattie was a longtime patient of Children’s National before he lost his battle with a rare form of muscular dystrophy in June 2004. Now in its 14th year, this event has raised nearly $1 million in support of Dr. Bear’s Den and the critical care units at Children’s National.

Dr. Kurt Newman, president and CEO of Children’s National, expressed his gratitude to Lisa and the other supporters for honoring Mattie and helping other families who are going through difficult times. “Thanks to your commitment and generosity, Dr. Bear’s Den has served as a safe place to land for so many families in need,” he said.