Another year, another incredible milestone for Notes for Coats’! The 2026 event was once again a record-breaking success, bringing together an extraordinary group of musicians, artists, supporters, sponsors, and volunteers for an unforgettable evening in support of our search for a cure for Coats’ Disease.
Held once again at the beautiful Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery in Nashville, Tennessee, Notes for Coats’ has become so much more than a fundraising event. It is a celebration of music, community, generosity, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by Coats’ Disease.
And this year, that generosity made an incredible impact with record-breaking funds raised! A preliminary net revenue of nearly $150,000 represents another remarkable achievement for an event that continues to grow in both its reach and impact. Every dollar raised helps advance the Foundation's mission to fund research, raise awareness, and support individuals and families affected by Coats’ Disease.
While the numbers are extraordinary, they tell only part of the story. The real success of Notes for Coats’ is found in the people who give their time, talent, and resources to make it happen.
An Evening Filled with Incredible Talent
The evening featured an amazing lineup of entertainment and creative talent, each bringing something special to the event.
We are grateful to Philip and the team at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery for once again welcoming Notes for Coats’ and providing such a wonderful venue.
Returning artist Leah Boorse captivated guests with her live painting, adding a unique artistic element to the evening. Wayne D. returned as our emcee, keeping the energy high, while auctioneer Lake Middletown helped turn exciting items and experiences into meaningful support for our mission.
Behind the scenes and throughout the evening, Cedrick Walker of Dretti Media captured the event as our digital content creator, with photographers Mike Huffstatler and Lisa Taylor Gray documenting the special moments. Chris Barnes kept everything sounding incredible as our sound engineer.
A very special thank-you goes to Keithan Melton of Combustion Music, whose support brought together an outstanding group of performers. Guests enjoyed performances by:
Ray Fulcher
JD Wise
Jacob Davis
Jordan Walker
Their music, generosity, and willingness to share their talents helped make the evening truly unforgettable.
The People Behind the Success
An event of this magnitude doesn't happen without an extraordinary amount of planning, dedication, and heart.
We extend our deepest appreciation to every sponsor, volunteer, donor, and supporter who helped make the 2026 Notes for Coats’ possible. Whether through financial contributions, donated services, behind-the-scenes assistance, or simply showing up to support the cause, every act of generosity played a part in this success.
And there is one person who deserves especially heartfelt recognition: Lisa Richardson
What began as an idea Lisa took a chance on has grown into one of the Foundation's most important and successful fundraising events. Year after year, she brings an incredible amount of time, creativity, passion, and energy to Notes for Coats’. Alongside her family, she continues to find ways to make each event even more special.
The event may have grown tremendously over the years, but the love and heart behind it have never changed. That spirit was unmistakable throughout this year's celebration.
Turning Music into Hope
Notes for Coats’ is a powerful example of what can happen when people come together around a shared purpose. An evening of music and celebration becomes an opportunity to advance research, improve treatment options, raise awareness, and bring hope to families navigating the challenges of Coats’ Disease.
As the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026, the success of Notes for Coats’ is an especially meaningful reminder of what a dedicated community can accomplish.
To everyone who helped make this year's event a record-breaking success: Thank you for being part of the music, the mission, and the hope.
We can't wait to see what next year brings!
