Walking with Anthony held it’s “Come Together” charity fundraiser on Thursday, September 14 at the New Port Theater in Corona Del Mar, Ca.The event was hosted by Executive Producer and WWA Founder, Micki Purcell, along with Anthony Purcell and event chairs, Krissey Nardecchia and John Moroney. Sponsors included Flagstar Bank, Riviera Magazine, Fletcher Jones, JP Morgan, Macro Z Technology and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. 

Walking With Anthony was formed by Micki and Anthony Purcell after Anthony dove into the ocean, bruising the C5 & C6 vertebrae in his spine leaving him paralyzed. Funds raised will be used to educate and raise awareness about the various obstacles that occur from spinal cord injuries (SCI). Many survivors struggle with depression and hopelessness alone.  Anthony knows first hand the emotional anguish that comes with SCI and has met with hundreds of his brothers and sisters in the SCI community and given them a sense of assurance and purpose they might never find without the help of Anthony and the foundation.

 It was quite the scene with a red-carpet reception, Beatles Tribute Band (4 Lads from Liverpool), Cocktails, food, live auction, and a Hollywood style movie screening. The fascinating debut of “The Lost Weekend: A Love Story” recounts the romance between John Lennon and May Pang, his assistant. May Pang herself was on hand at the end of the screening to answer questions. The event raised over $170,000. For more information about Walking With Anthony, please visit https://walkingwithanthony.org/

PHOTOS BY JOEY GILLESPIE and Kathy Hamilton