Volunteering on behalf of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has always been a family affair for sisters Barbara Nieder and Joyce Persky. And though they’ve never sought attention for their fund-raising efforts, they have agreed to be honored Sept. 10 at the the foundation’s Women of Distinction Luncheon.
The 11:30 a.m. event at the Denver Country Club will be a joyous salute to the sisters’ devotion to one another, family, friends and the foundation.
Nieder, who lives in Cherry Hills Village, began volunteering with the group 15 years ago, shortly after her son, Brian, was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Her efforts have centered on children who suffer from the pain of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; in particular, supporting the foundation’s summer Camp Oasis, specifically designed for children with Crohn’s and colitis.
When Persky, from Highland Park, Ill., was told of her nephew’s diagnosis, she and her late husband embraced the foundation and worked alongside the Nieder family in raising money for research and education. Persky also is a fifth-generation life member of Hadassah and an ardent supporter of Hadassah Hospital’s inflammatory bowel disease research in Jerusalem. American Jews of European descent are up to five times more likely to develop the disorder IBD than the general population.
Tea at the mansion
The Carriage House at the Governor’s Mansion was the setting for a tea at which members of the Asian Pacific Development Center shared life stories and experiences for an audience that included Colorado first lady Jeannie Ritter.
Board member Miok Lee Fowler recalled how her first high tea, in England, was a classic example of culture clash. Her native Korean dress apparently shocked the British staff, and she was promptly wrapped in a white tablecloth in order to be “properly” attired.
Chris Wanifuchi, the center’s chief executive officer, programs and services it provides, including a planned clinic that will offer both mental and physical health care. Huynh Nguyen also spoke, telling how she raised her siblings and a cousin in Vietnam before immigrating to Colorado to begin a new life.
The 45 guests were treated to Asian teas, cakes and pastries, along with harp music by Linda Curry.
Society editor Joanne Davidson: 303-809-1314 or jdavidson@denverpost.com; also, davidson
