Providence Hospice of Seattle Pediatric Luncheon September 27, 2011

Local bestselling author Garth Stein, who wrote "The Art of Racing in the Rain," will be the keynote speaker at Providence Hospice of Seattle's 12th annual Pediatric Luncheon, "Making a Difference in a Child's Life," on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011. The event is co-hosted by the Safe Crossings Foundation and is expected to attract more than 800 people.

Stein's New York Times best-selling novel is told through the eyes of his dying dog Enzo, who in his last days recalls how he helped pull his family through the trials of the loss of the mother from cancer and the struggles of the father to walk his young daughter through the grieving and healing process.

King-5 TV news anchor Mimi Jung will emcee the Pediatric Luncheon.

Proceeds from the luncheon benefit programs that serve Providence Hospice of Seattle's children's hospice and palliative care programs and children's grief support program. "Such programs make it possible for all children and families to receive the medical and psychological support they need during these difficult times," said Gary Crum, director of the Providence Hospice of Seattle Foundation.

Garth Stein was born in Los Angeles and raised in Seattle. His mother is an Alaskan native and is of Tlingit Indian and Irish descent. His father, a Brooklyn native, is the child of Jewish emigrants from Austria. After spending his childhood in Seattle and then living in New York City for 18 years, Stein returned to Seattle, where he lives with his wife, three sons, and their dog, Comet. "The Art of Racing in the Rain" has been published in 23 languages. Stein has also written "How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets" and "Raven Stole the Moon." He has also written a full-length play, Brother Jones, and produced several award-winning documentaries. With a Master in Fine Arts degree in film from Columbia University, Stein worked as a documentary filmmaker for several years, and directed, produced, or co-produced several award winning films.

Official Website: http://www2.providence.org/KINGCOUNTY/FACILITIES/PROVIDENCE-HOSPICE-OF-SEATTLE/FOUNDATION/Pages/special-events.aspx