The National Multiple Sclerosis Society hosted its seventh annual On the Move Luncheon at the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, raising more than $125,000 for research and awareness.
Joining luncheon chair Eric Affeldt were honorary chair Jennifer Chininis, Jessica Baldwin, Mary Wininger, Stephanie Chininis, Corey Admire, chair emeritus Paula and Scott Burford, honrary chair emeritus Jean and Walker Bateman, George Bramlett, Brooks Cullum, Patrick McEvoy III, Mac Wesson, Holt Wesson, Lynn Cowan, John Dale, Yasmeen Tadia, and Jud Chapin, who enjoyed an expertly prepared lunch while chatting with fellow tablemates dedicated to finding a cure for multiple sclerosis.
Emcee Samantha Davies of NBC 5 cheerfully kept the program moving. This year’s keynote speakers were Hail Merry team members — chief nutritionist Dr. Claudia Pillow, chef and food scientist Allison Brushaber, and CEO Sarah Palisi Chapin —who shared ideas about how to achieve higher health in a panel discussion moderated by Kirk Dooley. Hail Merry also provided desserts for the day, including an assortment of raw, vegan — and delicious — macaroons.
Two very inspiring women then took the stage and reminded attendees why they came to the luncheon. First, the On the Move Award was presented to Carla Rosenberg, an amazing businesswoman, athlete and advocate. Joined by her family at the lunch, she gave a meaningful and personal acceptance speech that tugged at the heartstrings of every guest.
Next up was actress and author Kristie Salerno Kent, who shared her story of living with MS. Diagnosed in 1999, she spent years in denial, ignoring her diagnosis. It wasn’t until she rediscovered her passion for music that Kent found the courage to face her disease.
After deciding to face her problems head on, Kent recorded and produced her debut solo album, Believe. She also produced and directed The Show Must Go On, a short documentary designed to help others understand the emotional implications and physical symptoms associated with MS.
Kent, a mother of two, has spent the last several years performing across the United States. Most recently she released her first book, Dreams: My Journey with Multiple Sclerosis.
On the Move is a nationwide program created to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis. Each year, On the Move luncheons bring men and women 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.
Kristie Salerno Kent
Ice skaters showed off their moves in the "Central Park" rink.Photo by Ashley Gongora
The Kilgore Rangerettes channeled the Radio City Rockettes.Photo by Ashley Gongora
Dessert included a cake that looked like a blue Tiffany box.Photo by Michael Merry