Another “boys vs. girls” competition raised more than $1,500 for Parkinson’s disease research with breakfast food.

On Thursday evening, about 250 students came through the Gardner West lobby to enjoy pancakes, live music and socializing with other students at the Pancakes for Parkinson’s fundraiser event, led by Addie Schmitz, sophomore youth and family ministry major from Grapevine. Residents from women’s residence halls competed against men’s halls to see which side could donate the most before the night was over.

IHOP donated the pancakes, and student bands Jane and the Gentlemen and The Dogwoods performed.

Addie’s father, Gary Schmitz, has fought Parkinson’s for 13 years and spoke about his gratitude and struggle with the disease. Addie, a resident assistant in Gardner Hall, said she is glad that ACU helped the researchers get closer to a cure.

“It meant the world to me to see everyone wanting to help out and support it,” Addie said. “The place was packed within 15 minutes and I was crying tears of joy that that many people cared. It really inspired my dad  and my parents got to see the ‘ACU difference.'”

Brandy Rains, also a Gardner RA, said it was touching to see how the disease has affected Addie and her family.

“Being on Gardner’s staff with Addie made this event more than just donating to a good cause,” said Rains, junior art education major from Fort Worth. “I love seeing what the ACU community can do at events like this.”