<span style="font-weight: 400;">In a community known for its strong sense of care and connection, one longstanding event continues to bring both together in a meaningful way. The Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach will host its 26th Annual Health & Wellness Forum and Luncheon on Tuesday, May 13, at Oak Harbor Country Club, offering residents a unique opportunity to hear directly from leading physicians while supporting a mission dedicated to healing and hope.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">The event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., has become a signature gathering in Vero Beach, drawing nearly 200 attendees each year. At its heart is an engaging and informative panel of eight respected local physicians representing a wide range of specialties, who come together on one stage to answer audience questions, submitted anonymously, on today’s most relevant health topics.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">“This is not a lecture, it’s a conversation,” said Executive Director Diane Ludwig. “People appreciate the chance to ask real questions and receive thoughtful, professional insight in a setting that feels both welcoming and personal.”</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Serving as moderator this year is Dr. Wayne Creelman, who will guide the discussion among an accomplished panel that includes Dr. Andre Vendryes, Dr. Carl DiLella, Dr. Clark Beckett, Dr. Paul Hebig, Dr. Mistyanne-Blue Miller, Dr. Melissa Dean, Dr. Monika Srivastava, and Dr. Crystal Taylor. Together, they represent a wealth of knowledge across disciplines, creating a dynamic and informative experience for attendees.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">While the medical panel is a major draw, the deeper purpose of the event lies in its impact. Proceeds from the Health & Wellness Forum directly support the Women’s Refuge, a Christ-centered live-in program in Vero Beach that provides help, hope, and healing to women facing life’s challenges through biblical counseling, support groups, and structured programming.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">“The women who come to us are seeking more than temporary solutions,” Ludwig said. “They are looking for lasting change, and that takes time, care, and a supportive environment. Events like this help make that possible.”</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Guests attending the luncheon will not only gain valuable health insights but will also play a role in sustaining a program that quietly serves women in need within the community. The Refuge’s campus offers a peaceful, home-like setting where residents can step away from the pressures of daily life and focus on personal growth and restoration.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">For many in attendance, the event has become an annual tradition, one that combines practical knowledge with a sense of purpose.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s one of those rare events where you leave feeling both informed and inspired,” said one longtime attendee. “You’re learning something that can impact your health, but you’re also supporting something that’s making a real difference in people’s lives.”</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Community support has been instrumental in the longevity of the Health & Wellness Forum. Local organizations and businesses have stepped forward once again this year to sponsor the event, helping to ensure its continued success and reach. Among the 2026 sponsors are Dunklin Memorial, Refuge Ranch, The Jane & William Curran Foundation, Millenium Cremation Services, Cleveland Clinic, Elizabeth Ross, First Methodist, Joanne Hall, Langie Mannion, the Marine Family, Nordic Comfort, VNA, Longevity Rehab, Vero Beach Global Advisors, Ruth Williams Collier and Hope Imaging.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Table sponsorships, which include seating for eight, are available for $1,500, and individual tickets may also be purchased for $135 each. Due to the event’s popularity, early reservations are encouraged. Checks can be mailed to: The Women’s Refuge, 1850 Lemon Avenue, Vero Beach, Florida, 32960.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Beyond the forum itself, organizers hope attendees will come away with a greater awareness of the Women’s Refuge and the role it plays in the community.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">“There are women right here in Vero Beach who are struggling quietly,” Ludwig said. “We want people to know that there is a place where they can come to find support, encouragement, and a path forward.”</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">As the Women’s Refuge continues its work, the Health & Wellness Forum remains a vital connection point between the organization and the broader community—bringing people together not only to learn, but to care.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">For more information about the event, sponsorship opportunities, or the Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach, visit womensrefugevb.org or call Judy Graziosi, Director of Development at 772-236-6659.</span>