Fun with the Fox: connecting to cure Parkinson’s

By Eldon Weaver

Cpntributor

VIVID Gallery will host the third annual “Fun with the Fox,” a special evening of art, music, food and fun to benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research.

“We call the event ‘Fun with the Fox’ because enjoying life is a big part the goal of finding a cure,” explained VIVID Gallery owner Jeff Keefer. “And the most successful local fund-raising events have been all about fun.”

The event, scheduled for Wednesday, October 9 in the plaza at The Shops at Sea Pines Center, will feature the music of local favorites Deas-Guyz. Lulu Kitchen, named one of the best places to eat on Hilton Head Island by Southern Living magazine, will serve complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine and beer will be available for purchase.

“We chose the island’s favorite show band, Deas-Guyz, to perform because they bring a wonderful high energy to the event,” said Keefer. “So, we know it’s going to be a fun evening.”

A former chair and current vice-chair of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Keefer was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2007. In addition to hosting the annual fundraiser, he currently donates all proceeds from his gallery to the Foundation.

“When I received my own diagnosis, I evaluated a half-dozen organizations that were involved in Parkinson’s research,” he said. “I chose the Michael J. Fox Foundation for my work and support, because they are collaborative - combining the efforts of everybody to find the cure, based on science, and close the door on the disease.”

About one million persons in America, and roughly six million worldwide, have Parkinson’s Disease, second only to Alzheimer’s as the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease. Fun with the Fox is one of hundreds of local efforts around the country that connect local fundraising efforts with the national organization in order to support research for treatment and a cure.

“We exceeded our goals for the past two years. Our faithful volunteers, generous sponsors, and the extraordinary merchants and restaurants that make up The Shops at Sea Pines Center make it possible for every dollar of ticket sales to go to the Foundation,” said Keefer. “And they’re a big part of making it all fun, too.”

Tickets for the evening are $75 and available at FunWithTheFox.com. “All we ask is for you to buy a ticket,” said Keefer. “There are no auctions or other fundraising efforts at the event. Just get your ticket and enjoy yourself.”