The energy in the Hotel ZaZa ballroom was exceptional for a charity fundraising luncheon as more than 400 supporters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society poured in to raise funds for research and patient programs.
Perhaps it was the presence of Grammy Award-winner Steve Tyrell, who flew in from home base in Los Angeles to give the tribute to the luncheon honoree and his sister, fashion blogger Roz Pactor. (Tyrell's daughter was diagnosed with MS as a teenager.) Or perhaps it was the seasoned expertise of Franelle Rogers, who for the fourth consecutive year chaired the fundraiser.
Whatever the source, the vitality of the room reflected an enthusiasm for the prospects of finding a cure for the disease. That probability was expressed by Dr. Timothy Lotze, who represented the luncheon corporate honoree — the Blue Bird Circle Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at Texas Children's Hospital.
Also in the spotlight were brothers Hunter Jaggard and Griff Jaggard, the latter diagnosed with MS when he was a college student at Texas Tech University. They shared their story with the audience in a compelling Q&A that emphasized the importance of positive attitudes for both the patient and family.
Joining in support of the MS cause were the honoree's husband and daughter — Alan Pactor and Crystin Pactor, plus Lesha Elsenbrook, Emily Covey, Janet Gurwitch, Joelle Rogers, Katie Brass, Lynda Transier, Donna Vallone, Vicki Kanaly, Ginger Kanaly, Cindy Soefer and Lu Caltagirone.
