"Scents-ible" Celebration
"Touch, Smell and Hear" Party Held for Challenged Children

Approximately 500 children with various physical and mental challenges experienced the joy of the season when they attended the 28th annual "Touch, Smell and Hear" holiday party, Dec. 3 at the Museum of Health & Medical Science. The Harris County Medical Society Alliance hosted the party to allow challenged children, such as those without sight or hearing, to be able to experience the holidays through the other senses – touch, taste and smell.

Two 12-foot trees were decorated with scented ornaments such as cinnamon sticks and pomander balls; noise-making ornaments such as wind chimes, chirping birds and bells; and ornaments that encourage hands-on touching, such as fuzzy critters and bubble-blowing Santas.

Santa Claus was on hand to listen to holiday wish lists, and alliance members donated teddy bears, candy canes, and jingle-bell bracelets to each child. Memorial Hermann Southwest and Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospitals donated refreshments.

"We’ve been hosting this party for 28 years, and it’s more rewarding each year. It’s wonderful to see these children enjoying the holidays, especially those who have never had the opportunity to do so until now," said Eva Goulding, president of the Medical Society Alliance, an organization made up of spouses of Harris County Medical Society members. Established in 1919, the Alliance’s objectives are to engage in educational and philanthropic activities while fostering fellowship.

The event was attended by children from local school districts, and children associated with the Texas Commission for the Blind, United Cerebral Palsy of Houston, Houston School for Deaf Children, and other special service groups.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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