Wednesday, November 19 | 5–10 PM 25% of all dinner food sales donated to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research

At McRae’s, we believe in good food, good company, and good causes — especially when they begin close to home.

When McRae’s owner Mike McRae met Alexis and Richard Penn, longtime guests who shared the story of their daughter Emily, he was deeply moved. Emily was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) at 15, which is a rare, progressive neurological condition that affects balance, coordination, and muscle strength. The diagnosis turned their world upside down, but what followed has been nothing short of inspiring.

Instead of retreating, the Penn family stepped forward — choosing to live with purpose, optimism, and grace. Now 32, Emily is married with four children, and her parents have dedicated themselves to helping other families through the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA).

Since joining FARA, Alexis has watched remarkable progress unfold. What began as a small grassroots movement in 1998 has grown into a global research network funding more than a dozen clinical trials and supporting the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for FA. About 95% of all funds raised go directly to research, driving innovations in gene therapy, protein restoration, and other promising paths toward a cure.

As Alexis shared, “We fundraise because we know research is advancing. When scientists meet our patients face-to-face, it stops being abstract. That human connection motivates the work.” She added, “We’ve been riding this train for 17 years, and we’re not stopping. I tell Emily, ‘You’re going to see a cure in your lifetime.’”

Moved by their story, McRae’s is proud to host Families for a Cure: McRae’s Evening for a Cause honoring the Penn family and supporting FARA’s life-changing mission.

On Wednesday, November 19, we’ll donate 25% of all dinner food sales to FARA, helping fund research that brings hope to families like the Penns and to every person living with Friedreich’s Ataxia.

Join us for an evening of good food, warm company, and shared purpose to move one step closer to a cure.

Reservations are recommended to ensure your preferred seating time and table. While walk-ins are welcome, we encourage guests to reserve in advance. Make your reservation online at www.mcraesamericanbistro.com or call (214) 792-9944.

Families for a Cure — McRae’s Evening for a Cause

• Wednesday, November 19
• Dine-in only | 5–10 PM
• 25% of all dinner food sales donated to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research
• Enjoy dining in our cozy atmosphere or outside on our covered & heated patio.
• No flyer needed — all dine-in dinner guests count toward the donation. Explore our menu: https://mcraesamericanbistro.com/menu/

Location & Contact:

McRae’s American Bistro 9913 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218 (214) 792-9944 www.mcraesamericanbistro.com