Joined by friends and supporters, Augie and Lynne Nieto express optimism for the future in the fight to cure ALS
Saturday, October 13, LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA – This evening, Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS held it’s 13th Tradition of Hope Gala, an annual celebration of research advancements for ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. The non-profit is helmed by local fitness industry titan and Corona Del Mar residents, Augie & Lynne Nieto. Every year, the Nieto’s bring together hundreds of donors, friends, leading business and entertainment champions to raise urgent funds & critical awareness for ALS, a devastating disease they’ve successfully taken on for nearly 14 years.
Hosted by Masters of Ceremonies Jann Karl, the organization awarded Evan Lamberg, who serves as the President of Universal Music Publishing in North America, its Champion for ALS Award for his continued efforts to support the cause. Chris Marsh, President of Irvine Company’s Apartment Development Division was honored with the 2018 Founder’s Award.
As an annual tradition, attendees in the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel ballroom were treated to a special performance by Musical Host David Foster and featured singers Shelea Frazier, Pia Toscano and Fernando Varela.
Several surprises served as highlights of the evening. The first was an impromptu auction during Lamberg’s remarks, as he auctioned off a private performance by David Foster in the winning bidder’s home; all to benefit Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS.
The second surprise was even more touching, as ALS Therapy Development Institute CEO Dr. Steve Perrin joined Augie and Lynne Nieto on stage. To surprise the couple, Perrin presented them with the third vial ever produced of AT-1501: one of the most promising drug treatments for ALS yet. Widely regarded as a direct result of the fundraising from Augie’s Quest, the vial was a symbol of how far Augie and Lynne have come in their quest for a cure; and a testament to the hard work of the community that has supported them along the way.
Ultimately, the event raised more than $1.38 million, shattering the Gala’s previous record. This was just another reason for the bountiful optimism of the evening; and no one was more optimistic than Lynne Nieto.
Commented Nieto, “This event is called the ‘Tradition of Hope’ because of our unwavering optimism and commitment that we will find a cure. I can confidently tell you that with the people in this room, our optimism and hope is stronger than ever.”
See more photos from the event HERE.
