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Watauga Medical Center Receives Gift in memory of Dr. Al Petti
Chris Petti and Dr. Al Petti
When Chris Petti visited her parents’ Avery County cabin as a teen, she didn’t realize just how much the North Carolina mountains would impact her. Nor could she foresee how she and her husband, Dr. Al Petti, would make their own impact on the community. Before Dr. Petti passed away in 2019 Chris remembers a friend saying, “There are no pockets in coffins. You can’t take it with you, so spread the good around.” And that’s what the Pettis spent more than 40 years doing in the High Country. At the pinnacle of a lifetime of philanthropy, Chris is still living by the friend’s advice today, but now she says, “is the time to do bigger and better things.” Because Dr. Petti spent many years as an innovative orthopedic surgeon, Chris chose to honor his legacy with a $1 million gift to the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation toward a new, ultramodern orthopedic program at Watauga Medical Center. A part of the orthopedic expansion project will bear the Petti name as a tribute to their history of medical excellence and community advancement. Chris has been a long-time supporter and ambassador of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System throughout her time in the High Country, having personally received exceptional patient care. She has also served with the Pretty in Pink fundraiser, and has made other donations. But in this phase of life she wanted to help position Watauga Medical Center to rival any other hospital in terms of modern technology, advancements, facilities, and people. “The High Country is such a close-knit community, and knowing the people involved makes it personal to me. . . I’m giving to people who will carry on a quality of care that will honor my husband’s memory and make us proud.” For more information about the Watauga Medical Center Expansion Project, and how to get involved, visit apprhs.org/higherelevation.
Anne’s Kids Supports School Children
Anne’s Kids started with a dream. Well, actually three dreams. Maria Martinez Sylvester kept getting “visits” from her deceased mother, Anne Marie Davis Martinez, telling her she needed to do something for her community and for the kids, in particular.
90— Winter 2021/22 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE
Maria Martinez Sylvester moved to Newland, NC, in 2019 and immediately recognized children in her community who were in need. She had the opportunity to discuss this with the school nurse from Newland Elementary and Principal Dr. Monet Samuelson. They both talked to her about how local children were in need of basic necessities. She called on her sisters and some close friends and Anne’s Kids, Inc. was born. Maria’s mother, Anne Marie, was a devoted mother of six children. She loved and cared for others unconditionally and always made everyone feel accepted and welcome in her home. After fighting a long battle with cancer, she passed away in 1987. Anne’s Kids began as a way to honor her and carry on her legacy. “All Are Loved” is the motto for Anne’s Kids. The mission is to give all children the security and excitement of going to school
fully prepared with all that they need regardless of their circumstances. According to the website, “Whether it is crayons or a new favorite sweater, every child deserves to feel special and Anne’s Kids is committed to making that happen.” Anne’s Kids is housed in a special room at Newland Elementary School. Children can go in and “shop” for clothes, shoes, coats, underwear, personal care items, school supplies, and even food. Teachers can also pick up classroom prizes and basic supplies. The room is colorful, welcoming and very organized, and according to Dr. Samuelson, every student and teacher at the school has now utilized Anne’s Kids. You can support Anne’s Kids by going to the website (www.anneskids.com) and purchasing items on the Wish List; you can also make a donation or designate Anne’s List as your Amazon Smile recipient (AnnesKids Inc Newland).
