JDRF’s 17th Annual Promise Gala raises $1.58 million

(Herald Reports- Williamson Herald. Click HERE for full article)

The Middle Tennessee Chapter of JDRF, the world's largest charitable funder of type 1 diabetes research, held its 17th Annual Promise Gala on Saturday, April 22, at the Omni Nashville Hotel.

A crowd of more than 800 guests attend the black-tie event, which raised a record-breaking total of $1,585,000. JDRF recognized Dr. Meg Rush as its 2017 JDRF Living & Giving Honoree Award.

Guests enjoyed a robust live and silent auction, featuring more than 200 unique and sought-after items. In addition to delicious appetizers and a three-course meal, guests also enjoyed wines from Woodbridge wines and beer from Oskar Blues Brewery donated by Lipman.

The program was hosted by Hope Hines and the auctioneer was Jeff Randall. The crowd was moved by Titans GM & EVP Jon Robinson’s display of support for his daughter Taylor, who lives with type 1 diabetes, when he raised his bid card for the artwork inspired by the words of Taylor and other children with T1D.

Determined to win the item, Robinson never lowered his bid card, even as he joined Taylor onstage to hug her and stand with her, publicly declaring his support.

Harpeth Hall senior Evie Witty shared her personal story of living with type 1 diabetes, and her brother Daniel joined her onstage, which brought the audience to its feet with a standing ovation. All proceeds from the event will benefit JDRF, which is leading the way in creating a world without type 1 diabetes.

The event was chaired by Karen and Bob Goodall (of Goodall Homes). Additional guests that evening included: Melanie and David Baker, Luke Gregory, Emily and Jason Hubbard, Sandra and Lawrence Lipman, Betsy & Mike Mularkey, Kim and Peter Oldham, Wright Pinson, Jaimie and Jon Robinson, Joanie and Karey Witty, and many others.

For more information about the JDRF Promise Gala, contact Mary Lyn Schuh (mschuh@jdrf.org or 615-383-6781).