Event host Jeff Goresen poses with his mother, Gretchen Brinkerhoff, at last year’s MS benefit concert. Goresen will once again gather a host of bands for the sixth annual benefit show in honor of his mother, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1995. The MS Benefit Show will be held Saturday, July 14, from 1 p.m. to close at Fast Eddie’s, located at 46 Old State Roadin New Milford. To learn more about multiple sclerosis and Do It Yourself fundraising, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org.
Rock Show to Raise Funds, Awareness
DANBURY, Conn. – Danbury resident Jeffrey Goresen once again is calling upon local musicians to rock out for a worthy cause – the fight against MS.
Goresen established the MS benefit concert in 2007 in honor of his mother, Gretchen Brinkerhoff, who was diagnosed in 1995 with multiple sclerosis. Goresen moved from Seattle back to Connecticut about six years ago to be closer to his mother, whose disease was progressing. Each year, Goresen gathers local musicians together for a fun night of rock and roll, all for a serious fight.
“Last year’s event was great,” said Goresen, who will co-host the event with Jonathan Chapman, whose father, Steve, also has MS. “This year’s venue is much bigger. Raising awareness and funds means so much to me and I have a feeling this will be the best one to date.”
More than 6,000 Connecticut residents, like Goresen’s mother, live with multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. The cause is unknown and, as a result, there currently is no cure. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted. Funds raised ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to Connecticut residents affected by MS.
The sixth annual MS Benefit Show will be held Saturday, July 14, from 1 p.m. to close at Fast Eddie’s, located at 46 Old State Roadin New Milford. Performers include:Jonathan Chapman, Justin Virga, Kris Miller, Quinton Gelderman, Six7, Midnight Blues, Phoenix Tree, 2-Fisted Law, d_cyphernauts, Scott Elliot Power Trio, Amanda Bloom, Don Ryan, the Union Rail, Zen Dudes and the Universe, Euri Meira and friends, the Danbury Lie, NCM the Dizrict Allstarz, the Brothers Rock and more.
“This isn’t a black-tie event, it’s a rock show for sure,” said Goresen, with a laugh. “I worked as a bartender and hosted an open mic night, so I got pretty involved in the local music scene. Local artists are very philanthropic and excited to get involved.”
Goresen relayed his inspiration for hosting the event.
“My mother raised my sister and me as a single woman, when she got sick it was hard to watch,” recalled Goresen. “But one thing she taught us was to remain positive, and that’s what this event is. I’m very proud that this event has made it to a sixth year.”
There is a $5 cover for the event, which along with a night of music will feature drawings and prizes, including two $300 grand prizes provided by tattoo artist Eric Chapman. Last year’s event raised nearly $2,000.
The MS Benefit Show is an example of Do It Yourself fundraising. Funds raised through Do It Yourself fundraising events, such as the MS Benefit Show, ensure ongoing scientific research to find and cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter.
To learn more about multiple sclerosis, its effects, and programs and services offered by the chapter to those living with MS by e-mailing programs@ctfightsMS.org or visiting www.ctfightsMS.org.
6/19/12
Laura Desiral is a junior at Quinnipiac University in Hamden. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in public relations. Desiral is currently conducting a public relations internship the at National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, in Hartford.