The Greatest Gateway Raises Money With Talent

Co-chairs Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson have really stepped it up this year by creating a memorable fundraiser for Gateway for Cancer Research on Oct. 20. The Sheraton Grand Chicago filled up with donors who were ready to be entertained at dinner. The Stephensons, who work extensively with Cancer Treatment Centers of America, stated on the red carpet beforehand how the music from The Greatest Showman movie inspired them to make a theme for it in 2018.

Several artists stopped to chat about the night such as the young singer Angelica Hale who never thought she would be on TV with America's Got Talent.

She talked about suffering from double pneumonia at four years old and her kidneys failed. Her mother was a match and gave her a kidney. It inspired her to perform at benefits such as Gateway and she will be appearing at the State Street Macy's 111th Tree lighting ceremony on Nov. 3 at noon.

Another America's Got Talent artist Stacey Kay stole the show with her rendition of "This Is Me" from The Greatest Showman on the stage in front of donors. The Canadian diva said she learned everything she needed to know from the gay community. "In Ontario that is a huge community I am involved with, especially the type of music that I do. It is geared towards them. I went to school for musical theater."

The 16 time Grammy Award nominated singer Brian McKnight was asked who would he want to play him in a musical about his life and he exclaimed, "Richard Gere!" McKnight is known for playing many musical instruments and said one he never learned but has always wanted to is the harmonica. He went on to describe his upcoming album Bedtime Story is for romance and there are no uptempo tracks. "While it is 60 minutes of lovemaking music, you might only need 11 or you might need longer!"

The generous attendees raised $4.1 million over the course of the evening thanks to tickets, donated packages and higher level sponsorships. From the enjoyable hostess Melissa Peterman to the outstanding performances throughout the night, this was a time many would not forget. Good luck, Gateway, at topping this big top next year!

Get involved by visiting GatewayCR.org today.