A patient of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles stole the heart of hip-hop artist Pharrell Williams during a touching moment at the hospital’s “From Paris with Love” gala Saturday night. Nine-year-old Eliana Georges went on stage during the rapper’s musical performance, danced with him and told him she loved him. The little girl then told the audience she wanted a moment with the rapper, who turned off his mic and hers. The two spoke privately as she placed her hand on his shoulder and shared a heartfelt hug.
Eliana spoke with Eyewitness News on the red carpet and shared her big dreams. “I want to be a baby nurse, a doctor, a singer, an actress,” she said excitedly. Other big names crowded the Microsoft Theater for the big gala, which raised $5.5 million for the hospital by the end of the night. Among the honorees was legendary LA Dodgers announcer Vin Scully, who skipped the National League Championship Series Game 7 to receive the Courage to Care award from CHLA.
ABC talk show host Jimmy Kimmel was also honored at the black-tie event. CHLA took care of his newborn son, Billy, last year, and Kimmel helped raise awareness about health care in the country. “By donating and helping these people, giving a gift to parents and families, you never know,” he said. “Ours is one, and we thank you.” Of the $5.5 million raised for the hospital, $1 million was donated by Kimmel and his wife, Molly. To donate to CHLA, visit chla.org/ways-help.