On Saturday, January 29th, Ginny Murphy, a Registered Nurse in Winthrop-University’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), along with her family and friends, will host the Second Annual Traci Beth Murphy Memorial Fund Butterfly Ball at the Bellmore Knights of Columbus.

Ginny and her husband, John, established the fund in honor of their granddaughter, who was stillborn. “Our goal is to raise money and awareness for families experiencing this loss, and to provide compassionate care for these families,” she explained.

The event’s proceeds benefit Winthrop’s Perinatal Bereavement Program and help support the Traci Beth Murphy Resource Center where families suffering the loss of a newborn can find literature and other items to help them through the grieving process. The funds also help support bereavement counseling services and staff education.

Last year’s Butterfly Ball attracted more than 200 people, who danced the night away, and raised more than $15,000.

Admission of $50 per person includes dinner, dancing and an open bar. Raffles, silent auctions and a 50/50 will be held throughout the ball, which starts at 7:30 p.m. and continues until midnight.

Reservations are necessary because space is limited; donations may be made directly to the Traci Beth Murphy Memorial Fund. For more information contact John and Ginny Murphy at 516-781-7321.