Celebrities Colin Farrell, Gary Mule Deer and Regie Hamm to Appear at Chicago Charity Event

CHICAGO, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- FAST, The Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics, will host an "Evening with the Stars" on Saturday, December 5, 2009 to benefit research toward a cure for the rare neurological disorder, Angelman Syndrome (AS). Comedian and musician Gary Mule Deer will headline the star-studded evening. In addition, the gala will feature a speech by actor and Golden Globe Winner Colin Farrell and a performance by singer/songwriter Regie Hamm, both of whom have been touched by AS through the diagnoses of their children. Hamm, who won the 2008 American Idol Songwriter competition, will perform his hit, "Time of My Life," which became a smash hit single for Idol winner David Cook.

An evening of fun and entertainment, attendees will enjoy a cocktail reception, four-course dinner, dancing and silent auction; sponsored in part by FAST corporate sponsors Morgan Stanley, LexisNexis, Innovative Mag-Drive and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. In addition to a wonderfully entertaining evening, this event will provide parents and loved ones an opportunity to share stories about their children, celebrate and savor in the hope that the future brings. The proceeds raised throughout the night will be donated for research dedicated to finding a cure for Angelmen Syndrome, a disorder that is often misdiagnosed as autism, cerebral palsy and/or mental retardation.

"We are excited about the progress we've made in helping to find a cure for Angelman Syndrome," said Paula Evans, founder and chairperson of FAST. "Because this disorder is so often misdiagnosed, it's important for us to raise awareness and funds to continue the great strides we've already achieved. We hope to surpass last year's success with yet another fantastic evening."

"The families involved with FAST have created a strong support network while tirelessly assisting those dedicated to finding a cure. I'm extremely proud to support such an inspiring organization," said Farrell.

FAST will kick-off the evening at 6:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Chicago located at 151 East Wacker Drive in Chicago. Individual tickets are $150 or a table for ten can be purchased for $1,500. For more information or to purchase tickets, corporate sponsorships or program advertising, please visit www.CureAngelman.org.

About FAST
FAST is a Section 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome and related disorders through the funding of an aggressive research agenda, education and advocacy. Our goal is to provide adequate research funding and a rapid grant review process to enable progress towards a cure for Angelman Syndrome in the most efficient way possible. To learn more about FAST, Angelman Syndrome, or to make a donation, visit www.CureAngelman.org.