Fifth Annual "It’s in the Cards Gala" sends message of hope to families

Lora and Myles Hinkel with Julie and Matt McDermott.

The Gala was held on Thursday, April 21 in St. Louis, MO to support the MU Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders where Delaney receives services for her autism. Sponsored by the Thompson Foundation for Autism, the event offered a night of fun for Cardinal’s baseball fans and helped to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Charlie Brennan of KMOX Radio in St. Louis hosted the gala. Tony LaRussa, manager of the St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Team served as honorary co-host. LaRussa has participated in the event since it’s beginning. During the evening attendees had the opportunity to interact with LaRussa and players from the Cardinals.

Julie Keathley accepts the Distinguished Service Award from Bill Thompson on behalf of her late husband Mike Keathley.

In addition to sharing stories about families and individuals who are living with autism, the gala also provides an opportunity for the Thompson Foundation Board to present the Distinguished Service Award. The award is given to individuals who have contributed to the cause of autism in a significant way. This year Julie Keathley accepted the award on behalf of her late husband, Mike Keathley. During his tenure as Commissioner of Administration for the state of Missouri, Mike was a champion for state funding for autism services and for a new facility for the Thompson Center. His collaborative efforts resulted in $5 million that was used for the Thompson Center’s new facility.

José and Diane Guiterrez	Cindy and Al Eberhardt

More than $520,000 was raised at this year’s It’s in the Cards Gala. Much of this money will directly benefit children like Delaney, who receive services through the Thompson Center, by funding programs and services. Delaney’s family is grateful for this support.

“The Thompson Center has become an extension of our family.” Matt McDermott said. “They have allowed me to get my daughter back.”

Bill and Nancy Thompson with Tony LaRussa	Sam and Hope McPheeters