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WILL DOWNING JOINS JERRY LEWIS TELETHON: Labor Day event to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy Association.
*Songwriter and singer Will Downing has announced he will perform on the national broadcast of the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon.
In 2006, the singer learned he has the debilitating disease polymyositis, in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks muscle fibers. For almost a year, Downing was bedridden and nearly unable to move.
In April, Downing, 45, announced that with the aid of immunosuppressant drugs of the type tested in MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) clinical trials, he was recovering and returning to his performing career.
MDA National Chairman Jerry Lewis said Downing is living proof that MDA’s fight against muscle-wasting diseases is paying off.
“I’m so pleased that Will’s magnificent voice has returned to its vibrancy and Telethon audiences will be treated to his extraordinary talent,” Lewis said.
Downing acknowledges that breakthroughs in medical research helped him beat a disease that initially dealt him almost unbearable pain. “My family’s support, faith in God and doctors who knew how to fight my illness brought me back from some very tough times,” he said. “Performing at the Telethon is the least I can do to show my appreciation.”
Originating from the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in Las Vegas, the MDA Telethon will begin at 9 p.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 31, and run for 21½ hours. Downing will appear live via remote from New York.
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