Triangle Team Talent Show is a Big Hit

Cortney Mansfield, Activities and Volunteer Director at Brighton Gardens Assisted Living (Raleigh, NC) organized an ALS  Fundraiser Talent Show for residents on May 20, 2010 in honor of Diane Hardison.  Cortney invited residents and members of Diane’s family to participate as talent. Diane was the red carpet guest of honor and looked beautiful with her escort, Frank Hielema, Brighton Gardens Physical Therapist. Brighton Gardens Director, Karen Sherman served as emcee. The audience included residents, employees, and visiting families.

The event started with Gretyl Kinsey’s video of Diane talking about living with ALS in her own words. Furniture was then moved aside and the floor opened up as a stage to accommodate 12 acts of live music, dance, and comedy routines. Diane’s mom , Hazel Sorrell ( age 94), did a comedy act; Diane’s  brother, Todd Sorrell joined Rocky Tutor as a vocal duo; her brother-in-law  and nephew , Tony McLamb and Zach McLamb played bluegrass music on bass and banjo;  her sister, Marilyn Kinsey  danced as Michael Jackson; and her niece, Gretyl Kinsey played the piano and sang. Other acts included residents and employees who line-danced, played the piano, and sang; a blind-folded chef act; and a resident’s granddaughter who played the piano. All performers received small trophies. Gretyl Kinsey won the grand prize for her very moving video. The talent show was enjoyed by all and raised over $500 for Diane’s Team in the 2010 Triangle Walk to Defeat ALS®.