Little Patty Heaton (she’s just 5’2”) had all the signs of going into the journalism business. Her dad, Chuck Heaton, was a sportswriter for the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Her brother, Michael Heaton, wrote a column entitled “Minister of Culture” at the Plain Dealer. Why, she even edited news film at Cleveland’s ABC affiliate in college and did a stint at People Magazine.
But at some point, she shifted direction and left Cleveland to study acting in the Big Apple with drama teacher William Esper. Not only did she make her Broadway debut in “Don’t Get God Started,” she ended up co-starring in “Everybody Loves Raymond” as Raymond’s wife, Debra Barone. During the show’s nine-year run, she earned her two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series.
Over the years, she has also raised four sons with her husband/actor David Hunt, written New York Times best-seller “Motherhood and Hollywood – How to Get A Job Like Mine,” and been an advocate for “vulnerable people around the world by highlighting the work of nonprofits.”
One of those nonprofits that will benefit from Heaton’s support is Buckner International. On Tuesday, May 7, she will be joined by WFAA’s Cynthia Izaguirre for a conversation at the “Hope of Children.” Held at the Renaissance Hotel, the evening will also include a three-course dinner of salmon and rib-eye.
According to Buckner International President/CEO Albert Reyes, “Ms. Heaton has long used her platform as an acclaimed actress to help inspire change in the world through advocacy and philanthropy.”
With all proceeds from the event benefiting the nonprofit’s work protecting vulnerable children and strengthening families across North Texas, tickets start at $250. VIP tickets will “provide guests with signed books and a photo opportunity with Heaton.”
*Graphic and photo provided by Buckner International