PALM BEACH
COUNTY, FL – January 16, 2009 – Juvenile Diabetes Research
Foundation’s (JDRF) announced today that Gary Hall, Jr.,
will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2009 Gem of an
Evening Gala to be held Saturday, February 7th,
6:30 p.m. at The Breakers.
Hall is a
three-time Olympian and 10-time Olympic medalist, winning
five gold, three silver and two bronze medals in swimming.
Hall was
diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1999 and at that time he
was told by doctors that he would never again be able to
compete at the same level that saw him win four medals,
including two gold, at the 1996 Olympics. He proved everyone
wrong in a big way, winning his first individual gold by
capturing the 50 meter freestyle at the 2000 Olympics and
doing it again in 2004. Through his foundation
and sponsors, Hall serves as a powerful advocate for
diabetes awareness, education and funding
Emceeing this year’s Gala will be Jay Cashmere, WPTV
NewsChannel 5 anchor and reporter.
During the Gala evening,
the focus will be on lively entertainment, dinner and
dancing and research support in the way of a live auction
and Fund-A-Cure, JDRF's signature giving program.
Presenting sponsor for the 2009 event is National City
Private Client Group (Mark Stevens, executive VP-managing
director).
Melissa
Parker is returning for a third year as chairman in honor of
her son, Derek, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in
2005.
The Gala Committee is
inclusive of Parker, Jamie Applefield, Michele Bianco, Julia
Chandler Boss, Gina Gordon, Gail McMillan, Donna Ross, Lisa
Thompson, Valerie Waters, and Jodi Wentley.
Gem of an Evening is black tie and offers an elegant evening
of fun for a worthwhile cause. For more information on
tickets or sponsorship opportunities, please call
561-686-7701.