TIRR Ballpark Gala a Family Affair

The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research, a rehabilitation care facility for individuals with catastrophic injuries, will hold its TIRR Gala 2000 Nov. 16 at Enron Field.

Chaired by Mary Beth and John Arcidiacono, the event will benefit Mission Connect, a TIRR-led collaborative central nervous system research initiative focused on reversing the consequences of spinal cord injury. This research benefits not only those with spinal cord injuries, but also those with other central nervous system disorders and diseases.

"Mission Connect is a collaborative effort of many partners, including academic, medical, and community organizations and individuals. The generous support of the Arcidiacono family and our community are critical to help us reach our goals," said E. Ashley Smith, President and CEO, TIRR Systems.

The gala theme, I Believe I Can Fly, also the name of a popular song, was chosen to convey the idea that despite physical limitations, individuals can still persevere. The words of this special song have meant perseverance to the Arcidiacono family, whose 13-year-old son Christopher (Chrissy) became a TIRR patient following a 1998 automobile accident. The song has helped Chrissy stay focused while re-learning basic skills, such as walking, talking, reading, and even tying his shoelaces. By chairing this event, Chrissy's parents are not only honoring his recovery from a traumatic brain injury, but also the recoveries of countless individuals who have received rehabilitation treatment at TIRR for catastrophic injury and illness.

"We know firsthand the need for the central nervous system research that Mission Connect is funding, and are excited about helping TIRR raise funds and awareness of this important project," said event co-chair Mary Beth Arcidiacono. "Discoveries of the potential of the central nervous system and the brain's capabilities, despite the limitations of an injury, are being made at a ground-breaking pace. You do not realize TIRR's importance to our community until something like this happens in your own family."

Backed by a strong group of community supporters, including a 35-member underwriting committee and an event committee of more than 75 members, the Arcidiaconos have made the gala a family and community endeavor. In addition to Mary Beth and John, other family members involved include James Arcidiacono as underwriting chairman, Carran Cullinan Castle as auction chairman, Kathy Arcidiacono as decorations chairman, and Vivian Arcidiacono, who designed the printed materials which feature Chrissy's handwriting.

Music for the evening will be an eclectic mix that includes the Salvation Army's Harbor Light Choir, the Family Affair Steel Band, and The Island Mambo Jazz Kings, a popular local band. The party will include an out-of-the-box silent auction with more than 100 surprise items. Tickets range from $150 to $300, with underwriting opportunities from $3,000 to $25,000.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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