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Laurie Jennings Live | December , 2022 | The Gifts We Give

A Gift for Future Generations

Paul DiMare knows his time is limited. This South Florida business and philanthropy icon was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease, a year-and-a-half ago and is now the first person in the world to get Schwann cell infusions as part of a clinical trial to find a cure. At best, it will make him more comfortable in the final stages of this cruel disease, but most importantly to Paul, it will provide critical data to help future generations.

I recently interviewed Paul midway through his clinical trial. He may be losing control of his muscles, but his brain is sharp as ever. Paul is fighting every day at the highest levels of the medical and political worlds for what he hopes will be his legacy - a Neuroscience Institute for Florida - to treat and cure all the incurable neurological diseases such as ALS, MS, Alzheimer's and dementia. Paul hopes this first ever clinical trial for ALS through the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis will secure Miami's place at the center of a "Manhattan Project" of sorts - bringing together funding and the greatest minds in neuro research in one place. Look for Paul DiMare's story of incredible strength and perseverance on local and national news very soon.

Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lauriejenningslive/

The gift of performing live

First improv ever - my husband asked if I was having a midlife crisis! But no, I just like pushing the limits and getting out of my lane. After taking to the stage as a special guest at the Doghouse Theater in Delray Beach, my husband said: "What a gift to be able to perform in front of a live audience without any hesitation". There's no doubt that growing up acting and singing, and decades of live breaking news pay off when it comes to performing live. Our Friday night show really made me appreciate the incredible skill of the improv and stand-up team called Sick Puppies Comedy. Thanks for letting me play along and taking it easy on this first-timer!

Follow Improv Masters at https://www.sickpuppiescomedy.com/

The gift of caring for others

What a night - celebrating the true healthcare champions of LEON Medical Centers with all 3,000 employees! The stories were so inspiring of lives that have been saved because LEON staff get to know their clients so well. One team followed up when an elderly woman didn't show up for her LEON driver or answer the door. They got a neighbor to check on her and saved her life. Going the extra mile - that's what LEON is all about and why they come together once a year to honor and celebrate stories of giving and caring for our seniors.

Jose Dans, Alina Mayo Azze and Laurie Jennings

For details on LEON Health, call 305-642-5366

The gift of community

The "City Beautiful" finally has its own Mayor's Ball to celebrate its history and its tremendous growth. Mayor Vince Lago hosted more than 350 people at the stunning new Loews Coral Gables Hotel. It's a 1-billion-dollar project with a huge plaza that will soon be home to restaurants, entertainment venues and art installations. Who better to dress the emcee than Gabriella Arango Couture? She has been a landmark on Miracle Mile for 35 years. Gabriella designed my wedding and engagement gowns 20 years ago, and she is still styling in the City Beautiful!