Clay Walker playing “6th Annual Chords of Hope.” Photo Credit: Alanna Massey
A curveball is flying toward you. You have two options — let it knock you down, or catch and return it to the world as something positive.
Clay Walker sent it soaring back into the world, leaving a trail of hope and inspiration.
He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at age 26, only a few years after bursting into the mainstream country music scene. Instead of letting the news knock him down, Clay pursued his career and founded a non-profit organization called Band Against MS.
He also established an annual benefit in Nashville called “Chords of Hope.” This is the 6th year the event has raised money for MS education and research at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
“I think the loyalty and commitment has grown from the community, and therefore I could see us very easily doing another six years,” Clay said.
Clay took time to meet with friends and supporters before the night kicked off. Tim Dugger took the stage, followed by Clay. There were 400 people united by a great cause at the sold-out show.
“We love doing it at this quaint place, at 3rd and Lindsley, because it’s just more personal,” Clay said.
Clay Walker performing while streamer pop into the audience during “Live Laugh Love.”
Clay spread his own laughter and love by popping streamers into the audience during “Live Laugh Love.” Fans twirled and threw the paper ribbons into the air as Clay rocked the stage. It was truly inspiring to feel the joy and energy within the audience, especially for those also living with MS.
Clay is a spokesman for Stick With It, an organization that encourages MS patients to stick with a normal routine.
“It’s real important to me to always make sure that I take medication three times a week, exercise and eat somewhat healthy,” Clay said.
Touring provides an unpredictable environment and makes it difficult to maintain a normal routine. He might be on the bus one night and in a hotel the next, but when it comes to his health routine he’s sure to “stick with it.”
Clay Walker and Alanna Massey backstage at “Chords of Hope.”
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