Walking With Anthony—a nonprofit dedicated to improving recovery outcomes for spinal cord injury (SCI) survivors—will host its Stand Up for a Cause charity gala on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, California.
The evening will mark 15 years of impact in the SCI community and promises an elegant celebration. Guests will enjoy a red-carpet welcome, specialty cocktails, a gourmet dinner, raffles, live music, and dancing. The event will also feature both live and silent auctions designed to raise vital funds for physical therapy, rehabilitation, and essential equipment for SCI survivors.
Throughout the dinner program, attendees will hear moving survivor stories and see remarkable advocates recognized for their contributions to SCI recovery. Honorees include Dr. Daniel Amen, physician, psychiatrist, and founder of Amen Clinics. Special guests from the award-winning film DARUMA include actors Tobias Forrest (quadriplegic actor and Christopher Reeve Acting Award recipient) and John W. Lawson (double-hand amputee and Best Actor at Slamdance Film Festival), as well as director Alexander Yellen and writer-producer Kelli McNeil-Yellen.
This year’s event will honor Tony Award–winning actress and singer Ali Stroker for her groundbreaking contributions to authentic representation of people with disabilities in the arts.
The organization was created in 2010 after Anthony Purcell sustained a devastating spinal cord injury. Refusing to accept permanent paralysis as her son’s future, his mother, Micki Purcell, launched Walking With Anthony to provide hope and resources for others facing similar challenges. Today, the nonprofit continues to fund life-changing grants, advocacy, and support for SCI survivors nationwide.
With recovery expenses often surpassing $1 million in the first year alone, the fundraiser plays a crucial role in bridging the gap left by insurance. Proceeds from the event will directly fund programs and services that empower survivors and their families.
For sponsorships, tickets, or more information, visit walkingwithanthony.org/stand-up-for-a-cause