Hundreds of National Multiple Sclerosis Society supporters got an unexpected treat at the eighth annual On the Move Luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas, where country music artist Julie Roberts redefined the keynote speech with candor, humor and a short private concert.
The afternoon’s agenda began with a quick perusal of fabulous raffle prizes and some pre-lunch mingling. Then guests — including Carla Rosenberg, Lorraine Rosenberg, Charlotte and Kirk Dooley, Barb and Randy Biddle, Gary Williams, Lindsey and Marco Frattarelli, McCrea Miller, Mary Wininger, and Stephanie Chininis — filed into the ballroom for an inspired fall menu, remarks from MS Society officials and a heartfelt video that highlighted all the good works the society does for those suffering from the disease.
Perhaps the most touching part of the afternoon occurred during the presentation of the Novartis Person on the Move Award honoring the legacy of Dee Wynne. Her family was very emotional when accepting the award on behalf of a woman who not only touched their lives, but who also made an impact on everyone she ever met.
Before the family left the stage, they announced their intent to bring back the Yellow Rose Gala, the event their mother founded in 1985 to benefit MS research at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. The last Yellow Rose Gala, in 2001, raised $2 million.
As slices of Nothing Bundt Cakes were passed around the tables, Roberts took the stage. She shared an inspiring story, which included being discovered while working as an administrative assistant at a record label and ignoring an MS diagnosis because she feared it would prevent her from following her dreams.
She kept the crowd laughing with her genuine, upbeat speech, which concluded with her coming to terms with her disease and becoming an advocate for the National MS Society. Then she performed a couple of her favorite songs before inviting attendees to join her in the reception area, where she stayed to sign CDs, pose for pictures and chat with guests.
On the Move is a nationwide program created to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis. Each year, On the Move luncheons bring the community together to encourage people to give from the heart to support their family members, friends and colleagues whose lives are touched by MS and educate communities about multiple sclerosis.
Julie Roberts
