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Miami Project Announces Major Fundraiser For 2009

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Nov 18, 2008 6:35 pm US/Eastern

Miami Project Announces Major Fundraiser For 2009

MIAMI (CBS4) ― Hundreds of supporters of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis gathered at the University of Miami's Lois Pope Life Center on Tuesday to kick off a major fundraiser.

The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis was started when the son of former Miami Dolphins player Nick Buoniconti broke his neck in a 1985 high school football game, his dream of an NFL career gone. Today Marc Bouniconti says his hope for a cure is stronger than ever.

"We're so close, on the verge of a clinical trial," said Bouniconti. "Next year we'll be doing cell transplants in humans, we're going to see research on humans, to see it since the beginning of my injury, it's really fulfilling a dream."

In September, 2007, Buffalo Bills player Kevin Everett suffered the same injury as Marc, but because of research from the Miami Project Everett was able to walk away from his wheelchair.

Those involved with the Miami Project say while Marc's injury gave them a purpose, Everetts injury gave them scientific proof that great strides are being made toward a cure.

"We talked to Marc who said you're knocking on the FDA's door, we're ready to do the treatment," said Dr. Barth Green, the medical director of the Miami Project.

During Tuesday's gathering the Miami Project leaders announced that their major yearly fundraiser, called Destination Fashion, will be held March 7th, 2009 at Bal Harbour.

Two years ago, the fashion show brought in one million dollars. Last year, two million was raised. The Buonicontis say next year the sky is the limit.

Destination Fashion 2009, which will be hosted by Tommy Lee Jones, is promising to be a massive event. All of the Bal Harbour shops will shut down for the event which will feature a performance by the legendary Poynter Sisters.

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