INAD Warriors Inc., 2nd Annual Blue Ties and Diamonds Gala - A Roaring Success

INDIANAPOLIS - Nov. 18, 2024 - PRLog -- The second annual Blue Ties and Diamonds Gala, hosted in August by Indianapolis nonprofit INAD Warriors, was a dazzling success, bringing together nearly 250 attendees for an unforgettable evening of elegance and purpose. Held in the luxurious Grand Ballroom of The Columbia Club in downtown Indianapolis, the gala is the organization's premier fundraising event, raising crucial funds to support awareness and research for INAD (Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy), a rare genetic disease impacting a local boy, and INAD Warriors inspiration, Warner Kays.

Guests embraced the Gatsby-inspired theme with style and grace, arriving in their finest attire reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. The evening commenced with a cocktail reception, setting the tone for an enchanting night ahead. Attendees enjoyed a sumptuous dinner while mingling and bidding on items in the silent auction. A highlight of the evening was the spirited live auction, featuring unique experiences and exclusive items including vacation packages generously donated by local businesses and supporters.

The entertainment was equally impressive, emceed by local News professional Rafael Sanchez and including a talented live band and vocalist providing a lively soundtrack that kept the energy high throughout the night. From jazz classics to contemporary hits, the music added a vibrant touch to the already festive atmosphere.

Keynote speakers, Hillary Ott, MSOT, OTR, Co-Chief Clinical Officer and Megan Siergiej PT, DPT, Director of Outpatient Services at K1ds Count Therapy poignantly shared A Therapist's Point of View providing therapy plans for a child with unique developmental needs where no standard of care exists.

The gala's success was made possible by the generous Sponsors and the enthusiastic participation of the greater Indianapolis business community. Their support not only helped make the event memorable but also played a crucial role in advancing INAD Warriors' mission to raise awareness and fund research for INAD.

As guests danced the night away and enjoyed the festivities, it was clear that the Blue Ties and Diamonds Gala was more than just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of hope, community, and the shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by INAD.  "We are tremendously grateful to all our Sponsors and guests for joining our INAD Warriors and Warriors4Warner team. Together we fight. And together we will make a difference in honor of our inspiration Warner Kays and all children afflicted with rare genetic life shortening disorders." said INAD Warriors President, Heather Prentice.

Exceeding last year's mark, this year's net proceeds totaled more than $111K.  Last year's Inaugural Gala resulted in a $70K donation toward a $100K NBIA Disorders Association grant initiative funding research by Dr. Ivano Di Meo of the Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute Carlo Besta (FINCB), in Milan, Italy.  His project, titled "Exploring Circulating Biomarkers to illuminate PLAN Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Guidance," seeks to address gaps in the understanding of PLAN and better prepare the community for future clinical trials.

ABOUT INAD WARRIORS, INC.
INAD Warriors, Inc. is a nonprofit inspired by Warner Kays' courageous journey.  The INAD Warriors, Inc. mission is to raise awareness in the global community about infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD) and the related PLA2G6 gene disorders. Through grassroots fundraising we are empowering the research community to find the first approved treatments to slow progression and potentially one day cure this ultra rare disease.

ABOUT INAD
Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (INAD) is an ultra-rare (affects an estimated 1 in 1 million to 2 million children) inherited neurodegenerative disorder. It destroys axons, the part of the neuron (nerve cell) that carries messages from the brain to other parts of the body through the buildup of fatty substances (lipids) on the nerves. In the beginning a child with INAD will appear to be developing normally.  But around the ages of 6 months to 3 years developmental milestones will begin to slow down and regress. Some of the first signs and symptoms may be changes in a child's vision, loss of motor skills, and developmental regression.

ABOUT K1DS COUNT THERAPY
K1ds Count Therapy is a local pediatric therapy services provider offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, diagnostic testing, and mental health services in the Brownsburg, Crawfordsville, Zionsville, and Indianapolis areas. At K1ds Count Therapy, all professionals SERVE Together inside and outside of therapy to ensure an individualized, quality, and comprehensive therapy experience for the child and family.

ABOUT NBIA DISORDERS ASSOCIATION
Established in 1996, the NBIA Disorders Association provides vital support to NBIA families, educates the public, and collaborates with researchers worldwide. As leaders in family support, they maintain an informative website and host biennial International Family Conferences, fostering connections and promoting knowledge-sharing within the community. To date, NBIA Disorders Association has contributed nearly $3 million in research grants worldwide, dedicated to finding treatments and cures for all NBIA disorders.