“Comedy for a Cure,” a night of laughter and hope to benefit tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a devastating genetic disease that causes tumors to form on vital organs, is set for Thursday, May 6, at the Ultra Lounge, 530 W. 28th St., Manhattan. Honorary chairs for the signature event are actress Julianne Moore, cooking guru Rachael Ray, and comedians Richie Byrne and Seth Horzog.
Host committee members include: Ellen Barkin, Billy Bush, Helena Christiansen, Jimmy Fallon, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, The Hon. Peter King, Tea Leoni, Rep. Michael McMahon, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, Nancy O’Dell and Stanley Tucci, among others.
Many may recall that Tommy Lindsey of Castleton Corners, who turns 11 years old this year, has the disorder.
Tommy first met Ms. Moore when he and his dad, also Tommy, were attending a TSC conference at New York University Medical Center, Manhattan. Ms. Moore happened to be passing by after dropping off her daughter across the street, and Tommy’s dad invited her to become the spokeswoman for the disease. She agreed. Since then, she has hosted several fund-raisers on Staten Island to raise awareness about TSC.
The possibility of a cure is closer than ever, and because TSC is the leading genetic cause of epilepsy and autism, every dollar raised to find a cure and better treatments for TSC can also mean a better understanding of epilepsy and autism, even cancer – diseases that touch most everyone all of us know.
Organizers ask that participants donate an item for their auction valued at $50 or more.
The festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a VIP reception and silent auction, followed by a short program on TSC and a live auction, then ending on high note with a fabulous cabaret of comedians.
Those interested in learning more about the fund-raiser should consult www.tsalliance.org. For additional information, telephone 240-638-4644 or e-mail tim@capallies.com.
