Global Lyme Alliance (GLA) is the leading private nonprofit dedicated to conquering Lyme disease through research and education. Currently, there are no accurate diagnostic tests for Lyme disease. The disease can continue to spread throughout the body, often leading to debilitating health consequences. Even following proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals continue to experience symptoms of Lyme, including severe arthritis, persistent fatigue, impaired vision, memory loss and other cognitive problems. There is no test to definitively prove that Lyme bacteria have been eradicated or that an individual has been cured following treatment. Thankfully, organizations like GLA are helping to fight the disease.
For the 3rd time, the gala was produced by the magnificent Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events. He left the crowd of more than 700 supporters in awe with his unique designs and table tops. The space was decorated in a black and gold color scheme, featuring sleek centerpieces and stunning floral arrangements. Scott is as well-known for producing spectacular, one-of-a-kind events as he is for his commitment to philanthropy. With a long-standing dedication to the community and decades of charitable endeavors, Scott is both a devoted philanthropist and legendary event planner. He supports more than 30 charities annually, including the Global Lyme Alliance.
The gala was hosted by Rosanna Scotto, co-anchor of FOX 5’s Good Day New York. Honorees included Marisol Thomas, philanthropist, animal rights advocate and wife of Grammy Award-winning musician Rob Thomas and Joseph Abboud, celebrated and award-winning menswear designer and author of Threads: My Life Behind the Seams in the High-Stakes World of Fashion and Fashion Designer Encyclopedia, for their active roles in driving awareness of Lyme disease and their commitment to finding a cure for this complex and misunderstood disease.
The Co-Chairs for the gala included Tim Baxter, president and CEO, Samsung Electronics America; Nick Lippman, partner, Lippman Entertainment; Jay McInerney, best-selling author; Jarrod Nadel, chief product development director, Tailored Brands, Inc.; Julian Niccolini, partner, The Four Seasons Restaurant; David Nolan, vice chairman, Millennium Management; Larry Scott, owner, Lawrence Scott Events; Rob Thomas, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter and producer;Alex von Bidder, partner, The Four Seasons Restaurant. The evening’s Honorary Event chairs included Yolanda Hadid, television personality and author; Ally Hilfiger, author, Lyme advocate and fashion designer; Dee and Tommy Hilfiger; Thalia Mottola, singer/songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur; Mike Schneider, broadcast journalist and documentary producer.
The ceremony was followed by performances from Rob Thomas and American Idol alum Chris Daughtry. Guests were also treated to amazing food inspired by The Four Seasons Restaurant’s new menu, courtesy of executive chef Pecko Zantilaveevan.
The Global Lyme Alliance (GLA) third annual New York City Gala raised $2 million. For more information, head over to globallymealliance.org.
Photos: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images