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Last week I attended the Art for ALS event held in Santa Monica, California. I first heard of ALS during the popular ice bucket challenge. ALS stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis which is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The goal of the event I attended was to raise money that would go towards research to find a cure. For this fundraiser over 55 artists and celebrities donated works for a silent auction. Donated auction items included various items such as paintings, photographs, ice buckets.
The artworks that were up for auction at the event were all unique and incredible. I admire the talents of those who can create a stunning painting or take incredible photographs. I took my time enjoying the art looking at each work multiple times. When guests checked in they were asked for their phone number. A text was then sent from BidPal so that bids could be placed electronically.
ALS ice buckets were painted and autographed by a few different celebrities. My favorite ice bucket was a batman one signed by actor Ben Affleck. Another one of my favorite works that I saw was a Bernie Sanders quilt. Everyone who participated in the Art for ALS auction has been personally affected by this disease. While I have not been personally affected by ALS I can relate to the family members of those who have lost their lives. Huntingtons disease took the lives of two of my cousins. Yes, these are two different diseases but I understand what it’s like to see a disease dramatically change someones life.
Like my sandals? You can find them here.
During the event I spotted a young man in an electric wheelchair with a bright green color. I mentioned to him that I liked his chair. We got to talking and I found out that he had taken one of the pictures that was being auctioned off. Anthony was very kind to take a picture with me next to his work. It was truly a pleasure to meet him.
Candace Cameron Bure, Paul Greene, Katie Austin, Danica McKellar, Courtney B. Vance, Minnie Driver, Travis Van Winkle and Travis Aaron Wade came to showed their support. Paul Greene shared that he lost his father to ALS and Courtney B. Vance shared that his mother is currently living with it. Danica McKellar, best known for The Wonder Years, donated two autographed copies of her math tutoring books. The books and a few other items were part of a live auction that took place during the event.
I am so happy to share with you that over $100,000 was raised. The money raised for research will go directly to the ALS Therapy Development Institute. The institute will be featured in an upcoming episode of VICE on HBO. If you can watch the episode I highly encourage it. This is a great way to learn more about this disease that affects so many.
Would you like to attend events like this in the future? Be sure to connect with me on twitter so that you can stay up to date with events like this.
My father-in-law has ALS. It is a heartbreaking disease, but we take it in stride. Thank you for helping out.
Seems like such a neat event and for a good cause! And totally fangirling over Candace!
X,
Cristina
cristinawashere.com
Wow!! That’s awesome that the event you attended raised so much money for charity. :)
XO,
Hannah from HMS Jewels
http://www.hmsjewels.com
This seems like such an amazing fundraiser, how do you hear about all these cool events?! I haven’t personally been affected by ALS, but I know that it is a devastating disease, it’s so great that it’s getting recognition to get some research/treatment funds!
xo
Sami
http://www.theclassicbrunette.com
Hi Sami, I find out about the majority of the events through twitter. -Elle
Amazing!! You’re always so involved and helping out!
This art is gorgeous!
Such a wonderful cause!! Hate to admit I went the stupid route and had a bucket dumped on my head in freezing temps (it was winter in Australia at the time) but you go girl!
This is absolutely amazing!! Thanks so much for sharing and for contributing to such a great cause!! xo
What a great event. I’m so glad that there has been so much more awareness of ALS in recent years.
I wrote a research paper on ALS last year. It’s a horrible disease. I’m so glad you were able to attend this event, and I’m happy they were able to raise so much money!
Kayla | kaylablogs.com
Sounds like an awesome event!
This sounds like a wonderful event! I love it when a good cause is helped!
-Anna | http://www.fivefootandfabulous.com
Great photos, and a great cause!
This looks like an outstanding event!!!! Also wonderful that it went to such a great cause :)
XO Amanda | http://www.glitterandspice.com
How cool! What a neat idea to raise awareness for ALS!
Nicole // Chronicling Home
This seems like such a cool event! So happy to see so much money raised for a great cause.
This is a very cool event!`