The 32nd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala returned to the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on May 16, raising over $1.5 million in support of the foundation’s life-changing mission to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. Spearheaded by MS advocate and philanthropist Nancy Davis, the glamorous evening united celebrities, supporters, and musical legends for an unforgettable night of fashion, entertainment, and purpose. Proceeds from the event will benefit the foundation’s Center Without Walls program, a groundbreaking initiative that unites top-tier research institutions to accelerate MS research and treatment.
Hosted by actress and comedian Caroline Rhea, the star-studded affair included electrifying performances by Robin Thicke, A Great Big World, and Siedah Garrett. The night kicked off with a high-energy fashion show by renowned designer label Veronica Beard, co-founded by Veronica Swanson Beard, spotlighting the intersection of style and philanthropy.
Among the many famous faces on the red carpet were Ashley Benson, Brian Austin Green, Carmen Electra, Kathy Hilton, Kelly Osbourne, Katie Cassidy, and Tika Sumpter, each lending their voice to support the MS community. The evening’s musical highlights included A Great Big World performing their emotional hit “Say Something,” followed by a stunning dance performance from Dancing with the Stars pros Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov. Grammy-winning artist Siedah Garrett captivated the audience with her rendition of “Man in the Mirror,” while Robin Thicke brought the crowd to their feet with hits including “Blurred Lines” and “Lost Without U,” closing the night on a high note.
In addition to performances, the gala featured a curated live auction offering exclusive luxury experiences. Highlights included a three-night stay at The Little Nell in Aspen with Aero flights and a Catch Steak Aspen dining package, a bespoke yellow gold diamond pendant from RobinHood Diamonds, and a four-night private yacht charter in the Bahamas.
Since its inception in 1993, Race to Erase MS has raised over $58 million and contributed to the development of 24 FDA-approved therapies. Its flagship initiative, the Center Without Walls, brings together leading institutions such as Cedars-Sinai,UCSF, Harvard, Yale, Johns Hopkins, OHSU, UCLA, and USC in a collaborative model to advance research and clinical breakthroughs.
The foundation continues to drive awareness and funding through events like this annual gala, which not only celebrate progress but also spotlight the resilience and hope of the MS community. The unwavering commitment of Nancy Davis and Race to Erase MS has made the organization a driving force in the fight against multiple sclerosis—helping to transform lives and bring the world one step closer to a cure.
By Kinya Claiborne, STYLE & SOCIETY
Photo Credit: Getty Images
