2008 HONOR AWARDS BANQUET

IDA’s 2008 First Annual Honors Banquet was a hit! This banquet was not your run of the mill fundraiser! 10 individuals and businesses were given Honors Awards for the differences they have made in their communities! Each were introduced to the audience, thanked for their service and given beautiful, customized awards.

Banquet participants were brought to tears with these amazing award recipients’ stories of courage and outreach: Founder and President, Wayne Connell, spoke about the prevalence and challenges of living with debilitating chronic illness, pain and injury. Board Members, Ginger Goins and Rick Watson spoke about the work of The Invisible Disabilities Advocate. Our Special Guest Musician was Dana Vernon, a local musical artist.

Attendees also enjoyed a delicious dinner, silent and live auction, as well as an inspirational message from Kris Harty. Kris also received the Perseverance Honors Award for her resilience despite a life long battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Kris continues to display her perseverance despite the obstacles. She is the President of Strong Spirit Unlimited, where she offers keynote speaking and coaching to businesses and organizations. Kris is known for her “Stick to it – no matter what!” message, which is both inspirational and humorous!

Award Winning Reporter and Helicopter Pilot for ABC 7NEWS, Jayson Luber, was the Master of Ceremonies. Jayson’s professionalism, compassion and sense of humor was exactly what we needed to top off a very enjoyable evening!

IDA Executive Board: Jim Kirk MBA (CCU Director of Development); Ginger Goins (Business Professional); Ali Garrett RN, BSN (Children’s Hospital); Carole Mitchell (Retired Business Professional): Rick Watson (President of Memory Bridging Inc); Kris Harty (Keynote Speaker, President of Strong Spirit Unlimited) and Wayne Connell BA (Television/Radio Broadcasting, Telecom Engineer).

All in all it was a wonderful evening of education, hope and inspiration for people living with chronic conditions, loved ones, physicians, nurses, attorneys and businesses.

Check Out All of Our Incredible 2008 Award Recipients!

Go to the IDA YouTube Channel for Videos from the Event!