Sunderland toddler who survived heart operation inspires Empire donations

The three-year-old Sunderland youngster helped inspire the Empire to choose CHUF as its charity for next year.

From January, donations made by theatre-goers in buckets will go towards the Red Sky Ball fundraiser which was set up by Luna’s parents, Sergio Petrucci and his wife Emma, to say thank you to the Children’s Heart Unit at the Freeman Hospital for saving Luna’s life.

Ben Phillips, general manager at Sunderland Empire, said: “We are delighted to announce Red Sky Ball for CHUF as our chosen charity in 2017. We would like to thank our patrons for the substantial generosity they have shown to charity collections over the years and I’m sure this will continue with such a worthy cause.”

Red Sky Ball for CHUF aims to make life that little bit more comfortable for families, whether it be providing a parent’s emergency wash bag, gadgets and games or the essential equipment and machinery needed to save little lives, every penny counts.

Sergio said: “We’re humbled and thrilled that Sunderland Empire has chosen Red Sky Ball for CHUF as their nominated charity of the year for 2017 and supporting our cause in such a proactive manner. As a heart family, we know only too well the enormous difference this type of support can make to the lives of more families in giving their children a chance at life.”

2017 will mark the second anniversary since Luna had her successful life-saving operation at the Children’s Heart Unit.