On Friday, December 6, 2024, a high-energy Gala was held in Tampa, Florida. Originally planned for October, the event was postponed due to two unforgiving hurricanes. The 16th FARA Energy Ball was an evening of camaraderie and fundraising to support Friedreich’s ataxia research.
The day began with a Research Reception Brunch hosted by FARA & USF (University of South Florida) Ataxia Research Center at the USF CAMLS building. It welcomed many speakers who discussed the ever-advancing research and our impact on the mission to treat and cure FA, including Dr. Zesiewicz (USF Health), Jennifer Farmer (FARA’s CEO), and Ron Bartek (FARA’s president), as well as pharmaceutical company representatives and FA patients. The event ended at 12:30 p.m., leaving everyone feeling refreshed on the current work being done to find treatments and cures for FA.
The main event was held at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Fantastic sponsors, 20 individuals with FA, and numerous medical professionals attended the ball. Suzanne & Paul Avery founded the event in 2009 and were honored to help make the Sweet Sixteenth come to life. The night included a fabulous dinner, entertainment, a silent auction, and some amazing speakers. This outstanding gala was huge success, raising an incredible $1.5 million. Together we will slow, stop, reverse, and cure FA!
Save the date to join us on Saturday, September 27, 2025 for the FARA Energy Ball at the Tampa Marriott Water Street.
Written by
Brittany Sommerfield
