#erin walker

Erin and Ramona both addressed the crowd in emotional testimonies of their experiences with Lyme and their dedication to raising awareness for finding a cure for this insidious disease. Jimmy Walker spoke to the crowd by way of video, thanking GLA and congratulating Erin. Singer Avril Lavigne recorded a special video message for the crowd, which was shown, announcing that she has officially accepted the invitation to join GLA’s Board of Directors, as well as details of the new strategic partnership between The Avril Lavigne Foundation and GLA. Avril’s new single, “Head Above Water,” is about her personal struggle with Lyme disease. Other evening highlights included a surprise performance by the Big Apple Circus and a menu inspired by Drew Nieporent of Myriad Restaurant Group, with sushi courtesy of Nobu.

The GLA gala was produced by co-chair and celebrated event producer Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events, who donated his event planning and design services towards the Global Lyme Alliance’s New York Gala for the fourth consecutive year. Showcasing his unique commitment to philanthropic causes, the spectacular and one-of-a-kind gala was an evening to remember for invited celebrities, business leaders, and top scientists alike. When asked about the inspiration for this year’s decor, Scott told us, “I went for more of a natural look, so you will find topiary and ferns mixed with lantern and tree lamps. The combination gives it more of earthy and glamorous look.” Scott also shared some holiday tips, saying, “The holidays to me are always about comfortableness and homeliness, but make it glamorous. Don’t hold back, the economy is great. If you’re making lasagna for two, make it for eight and share”.

Past GLA Gala honoree Yolanda Hadid spoke to guests about her Lyme journey and introduced a short video that illustrates the impact Lyme can have on one’s entire family.

The event was also attended by reality stars, Tinsley Mortimer, Sonja Morgan, Dorinda Medley, Luann de Lesseps, Kat Cunning and actor Chris Jones; philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, health and wellness influencers, Amie Valpone, Jacqueline Sposito, Adrienne Nolan, Jordan Younger, and freestyle soccer player, Skye Cowie.

The Co-Chairs for the event included celebrity event producer, Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events, Joseph Abboud, celebrated menswear designer and author; Charles Balducci, co-founder, Snyder/Balducci Group, Merrill Lynch; Chris Corrinet, senior VP, CBRE; Robert Kobre, vice chairman, Credit Suisse; Jarrod Nadel, chief product development officer, Tailored Brands, Inc.; Drew Nieporent, owner, Myriad Restaurant Group; and Peter Norley, COO, Credit Suisse Securities.

Honorary Event Chairs included Jay McInerney, Jim Miller, Mary Beth Pfeiffer, Mike Schneider, Victor Slezak, and Marisol and Rob Thomas from Matchbox Twenty.

Platinum Sponsors included Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events, Big Apple Circus, Credit Suisse, Nancy, and Bob Del Genio, David Nolan Foundation, Tailored Brands, and Withersworldwide.

Photos: Getty Images

What Year Is It?

No, seriously, I feel like I’ve been dead for a loooong time. Anyway, I did manage to get some stuff done. I’m still trying to do too many things at once and finding I need to pick and choose between them because that’s how the flow of time works. I’m on this stage with “And Then Came You”. It is what it is – I’m just filling in a few details that help me cover everything up in clothes, making…

… Or so I hope.

Hello again!

I’m not exactly sure what to believe, really. Earlier this year I was told by one of the school admins that I would be done with my schooling around this December, but recently I was told by my program chair (aka the best instructor ever, and the most fun to fake anger at!) that I am instead going to graduate this Summer. So, I have no clue.

With that in mind, I’d…

Hello again!

First of all, I want to thank everyone who’s followed my ramblings on this blog and those who have taken time to give me the virtual thumbs-up. Thanks so much!

I’ll get right to the point. I have three classes this quarter that started a couple days ago. They’re all fairly time consuming, but the life-drawing class’ instructor has let me (the class) know he’s planning on pushing us…