CENTURY CITY, CA — The iconic Fairmont Century Plaza was the dazzling setting on Friday night for the 32nd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala, a powerful evening dedicated to raising critical funds for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research. Hosted by renowned MS advocate Nancy Davis, founder of Center Without Walls, the event brought together an impressive lineup of celebrities, philanthropists, researchers, and supporters, all united in the fight to eliminate MS.
This year’s celebration was especially remarkable. It exceeded the $1.5 million fundraising mark, a testament to the ongoing dedication of supporters and the importance of groundbreaking MS research. The funds will support the Race to Erase MS and its collaborative Center Without Walls initiative, which unites top MS research centers nationwide to pursue a cure.
The star-studded evening featured vibrant musical performances, a chic fashion show, and an energetic live auction. Hosted by comedian Caroline Rhea, the event started with a stunning Veronica Beard fashion show showcasing the latest designs from the iconic brand. Notable guests dressed to impress, including Ashley Benson, Frances Fisher, Georgie Flores, and Nichelle Hines, adorned in Veronica Beard’s elegant silhouettes.
Nancy Davis took the stage to express her heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Thank you for being there for me when I needed someone to lean on, supporting me in the biggest and most important way. We’ve achieved so much together, but our work is far from done. We continue to push forward until we find the cause and a cure for MS.“
The evening’s musical lineup was truly inspirational. David Faustino introduced Grammy-winning pop duo A Great Big World, who performed their hit “Say Something.” Chad King shared his personal MS journey through a heartfelt debut of a new song, eliciting a standing ovation.
“It wasn’t until four and a half years ago that MS started to affect me,” King shared. “Thanks to Ocrevus, a drug championed by Race to Erase MS, I’ve begun to regain strength, and I’m able to play guitar again. That’s a miracle I cherish every day.”
Dance pros Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov dazzled guests with a captivating dance routine, setting the stage for Siedah Garrett’s soulful performances of “Man in the Mirror” and “You Are the Universe.”
Robin Thicke, introduced by Kelly Osbourne, closed the musical segment with an electrifying set that included his hits “Blurred Lines,” “Lost Without U,” and his soulful cover of “I Wanna Be Your Lover.” The night culminated with a spirited rendition of “Lean On Me,” performed by Siedah Garrett and Thelma Houston, who invited audience members to join her onstage in a unifying celebration of hope.
“When this organization started, there was only like two medications, and now there’s over 24,” said TV personality and singer Kelly Osbourne. Osbourne’s brother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2012.
Adding to the excitement, guests participated in a luxurious live auction featuring extraordinary experiences and exclusive items. Highlights included a three-night stay at The Little Nell in Aspen with round-trip flights, a diamond pendant from RobinHood Diamonds, a private yacht charter in Nassau, and a getaway to Ireland with Chef Catherine Fulvio. Other exclusive items included a custom RETNA painting and a 250,000-mile package with Alaska Airlines.
The evening’s success was made possible through generous sponsorships from Fairmont Century Plaza, Veronica Beard, and Associated Television International, as well as product sponsors including G.H. Mumm, Hafner Vineyards, Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards, Sanpellegrino, and Acqua Panna.
“Our journey is about more than donations — about hope, resilience, and community. Together, we’re making miracles happen, and I am endlessly grateful for everyone who joins us in this fight,” Nancy Davis concluded.
The 32nd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala proved once again that we can envision a future free of MS through unity, compassion, and commitment.
