'Lexus for the Little Ones' Generates $100,000 for Kentucky Children's Hospital

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 1, 2013) ― Paul Moughannian of Versailles, Ky., was the winner of a 2013 Lexus ES350, donated by The Lexus Store of Lexington as part of the “Lexus for the Little Ones” fundraiser benefiting the Kentucky Children’s Hospital.  Overall, the event generated $100,000 that will be used for hospital renovations.

More than 100 people gathered at The Lexus Store of Lexington on Oct. 24, for the drawing of the lucky ticket by Cassie Rickerson, a six-year-old leukemia survivor treated at Kentucky Children's Hospital who has been cancer-free for two years.  

Due to the generosity of The Lexus Store of Lexington, The MAP Foundation and a surprise $10,000 donation by Rick Pitino on behalf of The Daniel Pitino Foundation, Kentucky Children's Hospital was presented with a check for $100,000 to continue to help Kentucky's children like Cassie.

“Kentucky Children’s Hospital is dedicated to the health and well-being of our community’s children – those here in Lexington as well as those throughout the Commonwealth,” said Dr. Michael Karpf, UK executive vice president for health affairs. “Support from community partners in fulfilling our mission is critical and we thank The Lexus Store of Lexington, The MAP Foundation and The Daniel Pitino Foundation, whose gifts will advance our efforts.”

The Kentucky Children’s Hospital, which is currently in the midst of a multi-year renovation campaign, plans to improve and enhance its patient care space into a more vibrant, fun place for children and their loved ones. Studies show that an environment filled with positive distractions can play an important role in care and treatment of patients, especially children.

“After touring the Kentucky Children’s Hospital, I was truly astounded that our local hospital not only serves our children and families, but the entire state of Kentucky and beyond. While it’s a great privilege, it’s also a great responsibility for our community; and we are honored to be a part of this vital facility that cares for our little ones,” said Rick Avare, co-owner of The Lexus Store of Lexington and co-founder of The MAP Foundation, Inc.

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