A Country Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s Raised Record Numbers

Guests arrived at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts for the sold-out Michael J. Fox Foundation event A Country Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s, an evening of music and crucial fundraising for Parkinson’s research. Co-chair Philip Krajeck of Rolf and Daughters peppered the Grand Foyer with tasting stations featuring delectable croque-monsieurs, tasty agnolotti and a raw bar. The crowd — the largest in the event’s history — watched as music industry royalty graced the red carpet before the concert.

Once revelers filed into the performance hall, Willie Geist, co-anchor of MSNBC’s Morning Joe and anchor of Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist, welcomed guests and shed light on the evening’s mission. “Michael has been the North Star for millions of Parkinson’s families like ours — not just here in America, but around the world,” he said. Country music sensation Little Big Town charmed the crowd with hits like “Girl Crush” and “Boondocks,” and singer Kimberly Schlapman shared how her mother’s journey with Parkinson’s inspired her family — and the band — to dedicate their time to supporting research in the field.

In a moment that brought guests to their feet, Human Powered Potential team members Brendan Cusick, Peter Durso, Scott Forman and Patrick Morrissey joined the stage, after the crowd had watched a short film about the daunting 41 days they spent at sea participating in The World’s Toughest Row. The team raised $41 million for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, with one donor offering to give $3 for every $1 donated. Patrick, who has Parkinson’s, shared that he’s continued to work out every day since the race. “Parkinson’s does not stop, and neither can I,” he said.

Comedian Dusty Slay broke up the emotional stories with a lighthearted comedy set. And Michael J. Fox spoke beautifully, thanking the crowd for their generosity. “The love is so real and the support is so real,” he said.

Award-winning musician Chris Stapleton headlined the event with a set that included “You Should Probably Leave,” “Starting Over,” “Joy Of My Life,” “Broken Halo” and “Tennessee Whiskey.” The evening ended in true Marty McFly fashion, as Little Big Town and Chris Stapleton performed a finale rendition of “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry.