Glamour met generosity at La Sala Bar & Restaurant on Wednesday, November 12, as a stylish fashion lunch fundraiser drew a full house of 50 supporters to raise €1,700 for 18-month-old “Baby Jay”, a Canadian toddler in desperate need of sight-saving surgery.
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The event was organised in conjunction with the UK charity Through Our Eyes It featured a colorful fashion show, a tasty lunch, a lively art auction, as well as a raffle. All proceeds go to Baby Jay to help fund his travel to Malaga, Spain for specialist eyelid surgery. congenital ptosis – a rare condition leaving him without muscle in his right eyelid, which prevents him from opening it.
The charity has now achieved its second success. fundraiser In just a few months. October’s debut event brought in over €5,000, pushing the total raised for Baby Jay to €6,700. The full cost of the procedure, including surgery, accommodation, and travel, is estimated at €18,000. Baby Jay’s parents hope to have the surgery in Malaga. It is one of only a few paediatric centres that can handle such a complex case. They also hope it will restore Baby Jay’s vision and prevent any long-term problems like amblyopia or “lazy eyes.”
The founder was inspired by his son’s rare eyelid condition
Through Our Eyes, founded by Marbella resident Vanessa Rodrigo JakubowskiShe was inspired by the battle of her son with Blepharophimosis Ptosis Epicanthus Inversus Syndrome. Emilio was successfully operated on in Malaga, after many months of misdiagnosis and uncertainty. Vanessa stated that “BPES, and other rare eyelid disorders have been ignored and misdiagnosed too long.” “I am incredibly grateful for everyone who helped us raise money and spread awareness to help babies like Jay receive life-changing surgeries here in Malaga. Over 100 people donated across both events to make a real difference to a boy’s future. We still have a way to go – anyone wishing to contribute can do so via our donation page.”
The afternoon was co-hosted by Vanessa and supported by key partners: Adele of Angel Clothing Marbella, who curated the fashion show, and Michael Hölzemann, founder of plant-derived health brand Rethemo Lead sponsor of the charity. Michael said that “both events show what is possible when entrepreneurs and residents work together to transform compassion into action.” Rethmo is a company that believes health is a harmony of efficacy with humanity. Through Our Eyes is a charity that transforms donations into life-changing treatments.

Adele shared the same sentiments: “It’s been a great day.” Through Our Eyes, a special cause that touched my heart, is one I am proud to support. Everyone who attended was so supportive – it means a lot to see the community come together for something meaningful, while enjoying a fun day out.”
Charity offers support and advocacy to rare diseases
The charity that provides financial aid, expert advice, peer support and advocacy for families with rare eyelid conditions such as BPES, Marcus Gunn Jaw Winking Syndrome and congenital ptosis has already made progress. Málaga’s Dr Medel clinic performs around 80 such paediatric surgeries annually, offering hope where few options exist elsewhere.
Donations are welcomed at the Through Our Eyes donation page. Follow @throughoureyes_bpes Follow Baby Jay on Instagram to stay up-to-date on his progress and upcoming events.
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