Amy, Brian France support Parkinson's research

NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France and Amy France attend 'A Funny Thing Happened on The Way to Cure'

On Saturday night at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France and his wife Amy attended "A Funny Thing Happened on The Way to Cure Parkinson's," an evening of comedy and music to benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research Parkinson's Gala.

The event raised more than $5 million, which will go directly to fund Parkinson's research.

"We're all impacted by this on many levels, whether it be family members, friends, and until we find a cure, until we make progress with research then we all have to get involved," Amy France said. "There's a long way to go still."

About 1,000 guests attended along with Fox's friends from television and film, including actors Talia Balsam, Richard Kind, Julianne Moore, Ryan Reynolds, John Slattery and "Today Show" host Willie Geist. From the world of sports, New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist and tennis legend John McEnroe with wife, singer Patty Smyth attended.

Yahoo Global News anchor Katie Couric helped host with presentations by celebrity chefs Mario Batali and Rachael Ray. They joined New York's business, social and financial leaders as well as members of the community battling Parkinson's disease.

Paul Simon was this year's headline musical guest, and Fox joined the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer on guitar to play Simon's "Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard." Beastie Boys contributor Mix Master Mike also performed. At previous galas, musical performers have included The Who, James Taylor, Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Tony Bennett, Bon Jovi and John Mayer.

Comedians J.B. Smoove, Tom Papa, Colin Quinn and Jim Gaffigan also entertained the crowd.

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