On Friday, February 24, WARD’S Foundation welcomed guests to enjoy “A Rare Affair” at Charlotte Country Club. The inaugural event included an exclusive wine experience showcasing rare varietals, a live auction, and dueling pianos, raising over $400,000 to support families facing rare diseases.
Photos by Christina Hussey
Established by Caroline and Trey Winslett, WARD’S Foundation is a tribute to the Winslett family’s first-born child, Ward, who lost his life to a rare disease in October 2020, just six days shy of his 13-month birthday. The Winsletts have turned their heartbreak into determination to inspire hope in other families facing a similar diagnosis.
WARD’S Foundation announced a $1 million pledge last year, in conjunction with Rare Disease Day, to support rare disease care at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. The transformational gift will establish the Ward Winslett Center for Complex and Rare Diseases inside Levine Children’s Medical Plaza, ensuring patients have access to coordinated, seamless specialty care, all under one roof.
To learn more about the organization and support its mission, visit wardsfoundation.org.