Alan Jackson and Linda Davis raise CMT awareness through heartfelt performance

The House Floor Session of the Tennessee House of Representatives on February 27, 2025, featured a heartfelt discussion centered around the impact of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a rare neurological disorder. The session began with Representative Powers sharing his personal connection to CMT, revealing that he and country music star Alan Jackson were both diagnosed in February 2011. Powers emphasized the lack of awareness regarding the disease's prevalence in Tennessee, noting that many families, including his own, are affected.

Following this introduction, Linda Davis, a Grammy Award-winning artist, and her husband Lane Scott took the floor. Davis spoke passionately about her family's struggles with CMT, recounting the experiences of her brother-in-law and nephew, both of whom have faced challenges due to the disease. She highlighted the resilience and spirit of those living with CMT, urging the audience to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

The couple then performed several songs, dedicating their music to those battling CMT and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share their story. Their performance included a song reflecting on love and hope, resonating with the themes of family and perseverance.

As the session progressed, Representative Powers acknowledged the contributions of Davis and Scott, expressing appreciation for their presence and the awareness they brought to CMT. He concluded by invoking the spirit of perseverance, referencing Coach Jimmy Valvano's famous words, "Don't give up. Don't ever give up."

The session underscored the importance of raising awareness about CMT and the collective strength of families facing this debilitating disease, while also celebrating the power of music and community support.