The King of Pediatric Consultants

Elvis Presley with Dr. Mathis at Wine Opener

A few weeks ago, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Memphis hosted a benefit at the Playhouse on the Square. The Wine Opener featured wine tastings, gourmet food, and Pediatric Consultants' own Dr. Blake Bergeron as Elvis Presley!

Dr. Bergeron says, "I got involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in order to help raise awareness for this disease and to raise money for this great cause. The foundation is a major supporter of research efforts, but that is not all they do. They help families get assistance for testing, medical supplies, medications, and offer a support network for those affected by the disease."

"Cystic Fibrosis is one of the most common genetic disorders and it affects thousands of children.  These patients are very brave individuals, and we as a practice take care of several children affected with the disorder.  It is a life long disease, and these children need frequent medical care.  They face a life of daily medications, breathing treatments, vest treatments, and doctor visits.  Back in 1950, children with CF had a life expectancy that barely included elementary school.  Through extensive fund raising and research, major advances have been made in the field, and today patients can expect to live to the 40s and beyond!  In fact, emerging research is suggesting that there may the possibility of a genetic cure!"

Part of the evening was the "Sixty Five Roses" competition. According to legend, this is what one young CF patient called his disease when he couldn't pronounce the proper name. Several local florists donated some beautiful arrangements, and part of the evening called for "celebrity judges" (including Elvis!) to pick the winner.

This was Dr. Bergeron's first gig as Elvis, but party-goers would have guessed he was a professional! Dr. Bergeron's neighbors served on the committee for the fundraiser and recognized his untapped potential to be the King of Rock and Roll. He says, "I was thrown into the Elvis impersonating business, I can assure you! I figured it would be for a great cause, so I volunteered.  The costume was donated generously by Mr. Lincoln's Costume Shoppe in Midtown, and when I tried it on, I didn't really think it was me! I even sent a picture to my mom when I was in costume and she didn't recognize me!"

"The evening was incredible.  It's not everyday that you get to go to a party with Elvis!  I posed for what seemed like hundreds of pictures.  At first I was uncomfortable, dressed as such a spectacle, but after a little while everyone was giving me high-fives and shouting, "Well, there's Elvis!"  I tried to get as much into character as possible, so I practiced talking like Elvis and even tried to mimic his little smirk!  Not so sure I pulled it off though.  Someone asked me to sing, but I politely declined. I told them they want people to come to the party, not run away screaming.  At this point, I'm not available for bookings. However, if demand picks up, I may consider starting a side job!"