The Michael J. Fox Foundations for Parkinson’s Research was founded in 2000 by actor, Michael J. Fox, who himself has been diagnosed with the disease. The mission of the Foundation is “finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease through an aggressively funded research agenda and to ensuring the development of improved therapies for those living with Parkinson’s today.” To date they have raised about $289 million either directly or through partnerships.
On Saturday, May 19, 2012 we will celebrate the grand opening of the “Creations For Parkinson’s- Team Fox For The Michael J Fox Foundation For Parkinson’s Research” sim in Second Life (SL).
This project was begun by two SL residents who, after 2 years in world, felt a desire to give meaning and purpose to the hours they spend in-world. Their father died with Parkinson’s and their mother has it now. To quote her, “I may have Parkinson’s, but it does not have me.” At 85 years young, she has entered Second Life and is thrilled to see herself running and dancing again.
100% of donations and income goes to The Michael J. Fox Foundation. There is no overhead, no administrative fees, no salaries. All expenses for operating this permanent fundraising location are covered by their family.
Those of us in Second Life can have fun while knowing we are making a difference in the real world. Those who are affected by Parkinson’s can learn about SL, a world where they can be free of physical limitations.
The residents of second life have a long history of support for charitable organizations, including the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, where upwards of $250,000 USD in donations for this cause are raised every year.
The “Creations for Parkinson’s – Team Fox” joins this tradition of giving. Residents of Second Life can participate in the giving … and in this grand opening celebration … at Creations For Parkinson’s, Solace Lake (89, 163, 40). Others can make a monetary donation via the MJFF web site at http://www2.michaeljfox.org/site/TR/TeamFox/TeamFox?px=1006572&pg=personal&fr_id=1053. (Please copy and paste the URL to go to the donations website. Thank you.)
Spirit Matters ... in virtual worlds 