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By Elizabeth Turcza, MSA Coalition Director of Development

Over a month ago, I was connected to the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority, a governmental instrumentality of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, through Chef Luke Palladino, a friend of Chef Kerry Simon, who lost his battle to MSA in 2015.

Yawa’ is a concept that the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians have embodied throughout their history, and in recent years, Yawa’ has become known to the wider community through their philanthropic giving, having awarded over $300 million in philanthropic giving, since 2003. In working with the San Manuel Tribe and understanding our areas of alignment, the MSA Coalition was given the opportunity to apply for a $25,000 grant that contributes towards the MSA Coalition’s work providing education and access to information for those either diagnosed with MSA or looking for a diagnosis.

It is my privilege to announce the receipt of a $25,000 grant from the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) towards the MSA Coalition’s educational initiatives.

In addition to the contribution, I was invited to attend the opening of the Laguna Kitchen in Las Vegas, meet with Chef Palladino and the San Manuel Tribe’s Former Chair Carla Rodriguez, and bring awareness to the MSA Coalition’s work and those affected by MSA.

In speaking with San Manuel’s philanthropic director, Alberto Jasso, we discussed at length the challenges facing those with limited access to healthcare in smaller communities. Our shared goal is to spread awareness and provide information for those who think they could have MSA or show symptoms of a movement disorder, so that they know what to ask their doctors, when it’s time to see a neurologist, and what to do if their Parkinson’s diagnosis doesn’t seem to quite fit their symptoms. Access to potentially life-prolonging healthcare information needs to be available for all, no matter who you are or where you live.

The generous donation of $25,000 towards the MSA Coalition’s work by the San Manuel tribe is deeply appreciated and I look forward to continuing our partnership going forward.


The MSA Coalition relies on the generous donations of our supporters and partners to continue advocating for the MSA community. Make an individual contribution here in support of our work.

If you are interested in a corporate partnership with The MSA Coalition, contact Elizabeth Turcza, elizabeth.turcza@staff.msacoalition.org.