New York, NY (Top40 Charts ) The Blair County Convention Center was the setting for this year's "An Evening to End NF1" fundraiser for The Giorgio Children's Foundation (www.endnf1.org). The foundation raised $217,020 during the event, every dollar of which will go directly toward NF1 research, specifically for a treatment or cure for dermal neurofibromas (tumors). Also making this a memorable night was the introduction of renowned country singer/songwriter Josh Gallagher as the foundation's
Goodwill Ambassador.
"I couldn't be more thrilled about the results of our fundraiser," says Erin Borzellino, "and I'm equally enthusiastic about welcoming into our lives as the
Goodwill Ambassador for The Giorgio Children's Foundation. He earned the admiration of millions of viewers on 'The Voice' while turning in one fantastic performance after another. I look forward to the great advocacy work Josh will be doing on the foundation's behalf."
In June 2016, Gallagher auditioned for "The Voice," NBC's massively popular singing competition, joining approximately 43,000 other hopefuls across the nation. He not only made the cut — he eventually made his way into the final four contestants. In the process, he became a fan favorite owing not only to his songwriting abilities, but also his warm and relatable persona.
Adam Levine and guest coach
Garth Brooks both had high praise for Gallagher's efforts after he finished in fourth place on the program; his remarkable success on "
The Voice" gave him all the encouragement he needed to pursue his dream of a music career.
A native of Pennsylvania, Gallagher now calls Nashville home as he works to build his music career and give back to the fans who supported him on "The Voice." In the
Music City, Gallagher performs regularly at many of the city's popular venues, including the Country
Music Hall of Fame. To date, he has released two acoustic CDs and is now in the process of putting together a debut album.
In addition to a performance by Gallagher, "An Evening to End NF1" also featured the a cappella talents of "Pittch Please," the University of Pittsburgh's award-winning ensemble. By every measure, the night was a resounding success. Now, The Giorgio Children's Foundation's mission is to continue working to build awareness and fund important research.
About 1 in 3,000 children will be diagnosed with NF1. However, awareness of the condition is surprisingly low, which is why enlisting the support of public figures like Gallagher is so vital. NF1 is the result of a single defective gene that controls tumor growth, resulting in the development of tumors on and throughout the body in affected individuals.
About The Giorgio Children's Foundation for NF1
The Giorgio Children's Foundation was established in 2013 to fund research into a cure for NF1, specifically dermal neurofibromas. The foundation's mission is to enhance understanding of this condition and empower focused research into treatments and cures for NF1.
