By: Aimee Adler Cooke

Shown (left to right): Jennifer Midgett, Micki Purcell, Karen Purcell, with Anthony and Payton Purcell
Photography credit by: Phillip Faraone

A heartfelt and high-profile evening unfolded at the Balboa Bay Resort as more than 400 guests gathered to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Walking With Anthony, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming recovery outcomes for spinal cord injury (SCI) survivors. The Stand Up for a Cause Gala raised over $700,000 to provide life-changing rehabilitation grants and essential recovery support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of spinal cord injuries.

Founded by Micki and Anthony Purcell, Walking With Anthony provides critical funding for physical therapy, rehabilitation, and equipment — costs that can exceed $1 million in the first year alone and are often not covered by insurance.

“By honoring leaders in spine and mental health care, we’re shining a light on the importance of treating the whole person,” said Anthony Purcell, Executive Director of Walking With Anthony. “True recovery means addressing both the body and the mind—and thanks to our incredible supporters, we’re helping survivors find that balance and rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.”

The inspiring gala honored three exceptional leaders who embody innovation and resilience in the fields of arts, medicine, and mental health:

Ali Stroker – Tony Award–Winning Actress & Disability Advocate, recognized for redefining authentic representation in the entertainment industry. She also delivered a surprise, show-stopping performance of “A Million Dreams,” from The Greatest Showman during the event, bringing the audience to its feet. Stroker made history as the first performer using a wheelchair to appear on Broadway and win a Tony Award.
Hoag Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute & Hoag Spine Institute – Accepted by Dr. Tim Lucas, honored for their groundbreaking spinal and brain care, therapeutic innovation, and dedication to patient-centered recovery.
Dr. Daniel Amen – Double-board-certified leading psychiatrist, founder of Amen Clinics, and world-renowned brain health expert, celebrated for his leadership in advancing mental wellness and holistic recovery.

Several emotional moments of the evening came when San Francisco Police Sergeant Kevin Brugaletta, who sustained life-altering spinal injuries in the line of duty in 2023, was surprised with a $10,000 rehabilitation grant presented by Walking With Anthony and the National First Responders Fund. The grant will help cover critical recovery costs as Sgt. Brugaletta continues his rehabilitation journey. Spinal cord injury survivor Jason Coleman also made a miraculous walk across the stage — a powerful testament to the mission of Walking With Anthony and the impact of continued rehabilitation support.

The red carpet featured notable appearances including Tobias Forrest and John Lawson, lead actors of the upcoming feature film DARUMA, a groundbreaking production redefining authentic disability representation in Hollywood. Tyrone DuBose (UNSUNG, Death By Fame, California Music Hall of Fame inductee) and Steve Cederquist (HGTV’s Flip or Flop) also joined guests during the gala. Guests enjoyed elegant dining, inspiring speeches, and a lively live auction that included once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as a backstage concert experience with John Stamos and The Beach Boys (July 2026, Hollywood) and a custom veneer transformation by Dr. Charles Glaser of Apa Aesthetics, valued at over $90,000. In addition, Charlie Hawkins of Vital Medical Solutions generously donated a custom electric wheelchair worth more than $25,000.

The gala was produced by Elite OC Productions (Linda Young), with lighting and audiovisual design by Code Four (Eric Schmitz). The evening’s Committee Co-Chairs were Krissey Nardecchia and John Moroney.

In addition to the honorees and socialites in attendance, there was an impressive roster of spinal cord injury community influencers on the red carpet including: Kevin Ortiz (@wheelchairkev), Anthony Sanchez (@wheelchairapapi), Chelsie Hill (@chelsiehill), Natalie Buchoz (@nataliebuchoz), Jesse Billauer (@jessebillauer), and Samantha Lopez (@OhSamNicole).

“Walking With Anthony was born out of hope, perseverance, and a belief that recovery is possible,” said Micki Purcell, Founder and CEO of Walking With Anthony. “This incredible milestone—and the funds raised—would not be possible without our generous sponsors, partners, and supporters who share our vision. The right therapy at the right time can mean the difference between a life of isolation and one of independence. Thanks to their commitment, we are helping more survivors reclaim their lives. Recovery can’t wait.”

The event was made possible from the generous sponsors: ADP, Bachik Methods, Bentley Newport Beach, Code Four, Crystal Capital Partners, Darian Merage Foundation, Diamonds Direct, EverBank, Hoag Hospital, JetBlue, JP Morgan Private Bank, MemorialCare, MZT Technology, Nolan Brands, Riviera Magazine, Round Table Financial, Storelli Recycling, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Vital Medical.

About Walking With Anthony

Founded by Anthony Purcell and his mother Micki after a life-altering accident, Walking With Anthony is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the recovery outcomes of SCI survivors. Through grants, advocacy, and awareness, the foundation helps survivors regain strength, independence, and mobility while changing the public perception of what recovery from spinal cord injury truly means. For more information, please visit www.walkingwithanthony.org.