When Barry and Laura Cole, owners of Bere Jewelers, learned there was a way to help pediatric patients at Studer Family Children’s Hospital through art, they stepped in from the first conversation.
Laura Cole, the creative spark behind Bere Jewelers.Laura is recognized as the creative spark behind one of Pensacola’s most beloved jewelry stores, where she finds great fulfillment in guiding clients through the creation of unique and one-of-a-kind designs.
She’s also a celebrated artist whose vibrant paintings adorn private homes, corporate offices, and the executive suites of Centennial Bank.
Her work carries a captivating energy—like a conversation between color and emotion.
When she heard about the HeART to HeART Art Exhibit & Fundraiser featuring artwork created by pediatric patients of Studer Family Children’s Hospital to raise money for the hospital’s LIT Therapy program—she knew she had to be part of it.
What is LIT Therapy?
In simple terms, LIT Therapy uses a precisely guided laser instead of a scalpel to target and destroy abnormal tissue in the brain. This procedure is performed while the patient is in an MRI, allowing for real-time monitoring.
Doctors can pinpoint the exact area causing seizures or harboring a tumor—without having to open the skull.
This means:
• Less pain for our small but mighty patients
• Faster recovery—often days instead of weeks or months, so they can get back to playing with their siblings
• Reduced hospital stays, allowing children to sleep in their own beds
• Lower risk of complications, including less damage to healthy brain tissue
• Better overall outcomes for both their health and quality of life
For families, it’s a medical breakthrough that can mean the difference between months in the hospital and a short, hopeful path toward healing.
“Children deserve every chance to thrive,” Laura said. “LIT Therapy gives them a greater chance of doing so quickly and with fewer complications. If hosting their artwork in our store can help make that possible, Barry and I are honored to do so.”
These young artists have faced more than most adults, including surgeries and long hospital stays, but they’ve met the challenge with creativity and heart.
Now, their art tells those stories in the most colorful way possible.
Through August 15, 2025, Bere Jewelers will showcase their paintings, each paired with a photo and personal story. From tiny preemies to brave cancer fighters and trauma survivors, every piece invites you to see the world through their eyes.
You can view the collection during store hours and an additional collection at Global Grill Tapas Bar and Restaurant on Palafox Street —and more importantly….you can help.
Here’s how:
Vote for your favorite artwork — Every $5 donation = 1 vote
Every dollar raised supports LIT Therapy, giving more children access to life-changing care
Voting ends Friday, August 15, during the Cat Country Cares for Kids Radiothon.
Jewelry and art both tell stories—and both share the story of hope. Vote. Donate. Celebrate. Because healing comes from the heART.
Vote & Donate here: bit.ly/HeARTtoHeARTPediatricArtExhibit
