Michelle Pius

Each year, Fresh Start's all volunteer medical team provides over $1.5 Million in reconstructive plastic surgery, reconstructive dental and related services at no cost to the family.

Michelle Pius is the Director of Major Gifts at Fresh Start Surgical Gifts and brings a wide range of non-profit and development experience to the table.

Michelle's main goal at Fresh Start is to raise awareness in two areas; first to make sure every family in need is aware of the medical programs Fresh Start offers to kids at absolutely no cost to the family and second to work with corporations, foundations and individuals to create funding options so that the community may come together to help kids less fortunate get a fresh start in life.

Prior to Fresh Start, Michelle was the Development Director for The Vision of Children Foundation, where she successfully launched a community outreach program to provide vision screening for infants and children at no cost.

Michelle's leadership has been a driving force in raising millions of dollars for the Cancer Care Center at Rady Children's Hospital Auxiliary. Her leadership roles have included Unit Chair and Underwriting & Major Sponsorships. She also serves on the Rady Children's Hospital Circle of Care Committee, as Vice President of Women Benefiting the Community, and the Torrey Pines Foundation Board.

Podcast:

April 11, 2012

01: Whatever The Mind Expects, It Finds

Is your glass half-empty or half-full? Are you a victim of circumstances? Guest host Dr. David Chotiner describes how the power of thoughts can change your world. Though usually done subconsciously, it is possible to make the thought process a conscious one. Are you willing to change the way you think? Find out how you can achieve a more fulfilling life through changing your mind.

02: Financially Disadvantaged Families Find A Fresh Start

Dr. Chotiner introduces Michelle Pius, the Director of Major Gifts at Fresh Start Surgical Gifts. Fresh Start’s founder, the late Dr. Dennis Nigro, began transforming the lives of youth with deformities on a pro bono basis in the late 1980’s. By 1991, his personal philanthropic efforts and vision had caught on, resulting in the birth of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts. Since its inception, over 5,600 children have received their transformations valued at over $21,000,000. Find out who is eligible to receive a Fresh Start gift.

03: A Multi-Disciplinary Approach To Reconstructive Care

Fresh Start's approach to care is multi-disciplinary. In addition to reconstructive surgery, they provide dental procedures, laser treatments, and speech therapy. Listen as Michelle Pius provides some inspirational stories on patients the organization has helped, allowing them to have the lives they’ve always deserved.

04: How Can You Achieve A Truly Fulfilling Life?

Some of the happiest people on earth are habitual givers, and they understand that a truly balanced and fulfilling life is about caring about others. Dr. Chotiner and Michelle discuss how you can make a difference in your own community through supporting local non-profit organizations. Listen and learn how you can change the world!