at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead, January 31, 2009, Beyond the Illusion

While the weather report for Saturday, January 31, 2009 made no mention of snow and ice, attendees at the annual Taste of Love gala could have been easily convinced otherwise when they entered into a magical world of sparkle and white at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead. The breathtaking decor incorporating silver white and crystal gave the appearance of a luxurious winter wonderland (without the cold temperatures!) The crisp look of the evening was just one of many illusions guests were treated to as they experienced this year's theme, Beyond The Illusion. The Taste of Love, the annual flagship event benefitting the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia (EFGA), has gained the reputation of a signature event for the metro Atlanta social community. Indeed, the 2008 event even garnered national recognition by achieving the award for highest netting event of any type in the country for any Epilepsy Foundation of America Affiliate. Big expectations to follow but through the tireless work of the volunteers and supporters, EFGA may very well bring the same award home for a succeeding year!

Beyond The Illusion was chosen as this year's theme to emphasize the fact that epilepsy/seizure disorders are normally not a blockade to living a full and productive life! Many people (even many around you that you are probably unaware of) lead lives like most everyone. Medications and other therapies have made epilepsy manageable so that most persons with epilepsy/seizure disorders of all ages attend school, work and function equivalent to their family and friends who do not have epilepsy/seizure disorders.

To that end, the Taste of Love was the event to unveil the new and locally produced video dispelling some of the myths (illusions) too commonly held about epilepsy/seizure disorders. The video, which also discusses the various programs offered by EFGA, was met with resounding enthusiasm.

The illusion theme was enhanced by the entertainment for the evening, professional illusionist, Michael Trixx, who amazed the audience with his slight of hand and illusions that had to be seen to be believed! Trixx gained national fame as a contestant of the television show "America's Got Talent".

There is certainly no illusion involved with the secret of the tremendously successful night! Through the dedication, hard work and financial support of the people and companies below, the programs of EFGA for the coming year will not be an illusion but definitely a reality. The people and companies below may not be able to pull rabbits and birds out of thin air as the illusionist did, but they surely produced magic that will make a difference in thousands of Georgians' lives and our unending gratitude goes out to each.