Team Fox members are using their musical talents to bring awareness to Parkinson’s disease. Through the power of music, members are bringing their communities together and creating inspiring fundraising concerts and albums that showcase their passion. Check out a few fundraisers that are making music with meaning.

Doug, Heather, and Friends: On October 16, talented guitarist Doug Vanderlaan and vocalist Heather Perry hosted a night of live music at Three Layers Cafe in Jacksonville, Florida. For years, Doug and Heather have been a musical fixture in their community, hosting shows that feature a wide-ranging assortment of songs. When Doug was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the duo decided to join Team Fox and host a show with musical guest Once a Week in support of Parkinson’s disease research. Guests were encouraged to make a donation for each song they wished to hear live on the night of their performance. With nearly $4,500 raised, Doug and Heather doubled their initial fundraising goal!

Playing to Beat Parkinson's: After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 36, Team Fox member Melissa Tatum transformed her passion for folk music into a creative way to engage her local community of Tucson, Arizona in supporting Parkinson’s research. Through her WOVOG Foundation (With One Voice and One Guitar), Melissa has utilized the talent of local musical voices to host benefit concerts and create themed CDs with sales benefitting Team Fox. Her most recent concert — Playing to Beat Parkinson’s on November 15 — welcomed nearly 400 guests who enjoyed a special performance by hometown favorite Run Boy Run and helped raise over $4,900. Learn more about WOVOG’s efforts and upcoming events. 

Hope For Chirstmas: When Michael Raskovsky’s dear friend George Hill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Michael knew very little about the disease. Over the years, Michael witnessed the disease affect George’s mobility and communication — and yet, the disease could not stifle George’s love of singing and creating music. Michael set out to find a way to bring awareness to Parkinson’s and honor George’s passion and talent. With the help of an amazing volunteer group of musicians, singers, engineers and producers, the holiday album, Hope for Christmas, was created. The album showcases George, along with several artists and songs that celebrate the holiday spirit. The album is available for purchase on iTunes. All proceeds from the Hope for Christmas album will be donated to Team Fox.

Inspired? There are many unique ways to join in and create your own event! Check out teamfox.org for more information and to find events near you.