Nelson Mandela and Graca Machel
Today marks the 95th birthday of South Africa president Nelson Mandela. Among his many achievements, Mandela showed the world the power of forgiveness and compassion, taking Mohandas K. Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence up another notch. His desire to make this world a better and more peaceful place for future generations must inspire all of us to do whatever we can to make this dream a reality.
On his 95th birthday today let us pledge to ensure that 450 million children of Africa can be ensured healthcare when they need it. Africa needs a caring, compassionate world. Can we step up to the challenge?
I have been honored by an invitation from former South Africa First Lady Mrs. Graca Machel to lend my support to Nelson Mandela’s final and perhaps most desired legacy, better health and medical care for the children of Africa: Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, Johannesburg South Africa.
Please lend a hand and help us spread this message of hope. Be sure to use the #LegacyofHope hash-tag in your tweets and Facebook posts today!
Media and fundraising organized in part by Ms. Jennifer Trubenbach’s Orange County California-based Operation of Hope, the renowned traveling voluntary child surgical mission, and Eric Gast’s FM World Charities, the Legacy of Hope initiative will hold concert fundraisers on two continents to support the construction of the Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital, honoring Mr. Nelson Mandela’s lifelong commitment to children.
Sibongile Mkhabela, CEO, Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust said, “With 450 million children in Africa and only three dedicated children’s hospitals, the need for this specialized facility in southern Africa is paramount. We are excited that FM World Charities and Operation of Hope are sharing in our efforts to make this hospital a reality. Music and children are always a perfect fit.“
The launch of the “Legacy of Hope” in North America will be at a private event on July 18, 2013 at New York’s Gotham Hall marks the 95th birthday of Mr. Mandela as well as the start of Legacy of Hope’s journey towards global concerts on two continents on December 7, 2013.
In Mandela’s words, the hospital will be a “… credible demonstration of the commitment of African leaders to place the rights of children at the forefront.” No child will be turned away due to inability to pay.