Not every Move Your Way fundraiser is a birthday bash featuring three fantastic bands sharing the same lead singer – the birthday boy himself! But an evening with impact was the wish of Shawn Brady, Arthritis Society Canada’s own Vice President of the Arthritis Rehabilitation and Education Program (AREP) and Innovation.
Move Your Way is a simple do-it-yourself fundraiser that allows everyone to participate in a way that is fun and meaningful for them.
Over 300 people came together at the legendary El Mocambo music venue in Toronto on February 10, 2024, raising over $5,000 for Arthritis Society Canada. The funds will help power the work to improve health outcomes for people living with arthritis through research, advocacy, innovation, information and support. While they danced and sang to U2 classics and 80s hits, partygoers also learned facts about arthritis on the venue’s screens.
“Two of my greatest passions are music and working in healthcare,” shares Shawn. “February is often a time when the winter blues can set in, and since my birthday falls in early February, I looked for a way to combine my two passions to brighten the month. I wanted to create a really fun event to bring joy to people while also raising awareness and money to support the six million people in Canada living with arthritis.”
At his day job, Shawn leads AREP and Innovation, on a mission to drive meaningful change for individuals living with arthritis. But when he leaves his ‘nine-to-five’, Shawn is a renowned indie rock artist and lead singer for the 80s band Neon Nostalgic and U2 Tribute band Elevation, as well as part of the duo, Stoned Robins.
These are no garage bands – it’s serious stuff! Elevation has performed in over 15 countries worldwide and Neon Nostalgic is the most sought-after 80’s band on the circuit. What makes it extra special? According to the website, it’s the world’s only live rock and roll show that syncs the band’s performance to the original, iconic music videos.
This isn’t the first time Shawn and his band have supported Arthritis Society Canada. They’ve had feet dancing at some of Arthritis Society Canada’s signature fundraising events like Toronto’s Arthritis Fire Ball and All-In for Arthritis’ afterparty, Diamonds and Denim.
“But this show was special,” says Shawn. “It was the first time our band organized our own concert to raise money for the cause that is close to my heart. It means the world to be able to support Arthritis Society Canada while giving people a fun night to remember!”
Learn how you can hold your own Move Your Way fundraiser and use your passions to drive meaningful change for individuals living with arthritis.