SongShine for Parkinson’s Honors Founder at Annual Benefit Luncheon

The SongShine for Parkinson’s Foundation held its annual benefit luncheon earlier today, honoring founder Dr. Ruthanna Metzgar.

Hosted at Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, longtime members gathered in song to celebrate their mentor and raise funds for the organization’s future. Metzgar founded SongShine in 2006 alongside creative director Peter Harris with a mission to help individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and other neurological challenges rediscover their voices through music.

Although Metzgar was unable to attend in person due to her health, she joined the luncheon via Zoom as members shared emotional stories about how the program transformed their lives. Board director Steve Young credited SongShine with helping restore his speech after suffering three strokes, saying it allowed him to communicate again with his wife and others.

Classes are held frequently at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church, where church leaders say they witness participants come alive through music and community.

During the luncheon, members performed favorites including “My Favorite Things” and “Climb Every Mountain” from The Sound of Music, a duet of “Do You Love Me?” from Fiddler on the Roof, and one of Metzgar’s favorite hymns, “Amazing Grace.”