Photos: Moms of Pro Athletes Host Charity Event in Newport

Mothers of professional athletes—along with a handful of their famous sons—were in Newport Beach on Saturday to raise money for a group that provides services for people with autism and their families.

The 14th Annual Pre-Season Conference and Gala held Saturday evening at the Newport Beach Hyatt Regency Hotel was hosted by the Professional Football Players Mothers Association. Each year the association chooses a charitable organization to honor. This year, Talk About Curing Autism was the beneficiary of the event. The group provides support, education, information and resources to over 26,000 families coping with autism. 

"We're glad to be beneficiaries to help children with autism. There are football players here with children with autism helping the communities," said Dan Carney, spokesman for Talk About Curing Autism. 

Lucille Harrison, mom of former superstar NBA player Shaquille O'Neal said she was happy to attend for such a worthy cause.

"I'm excited about being here. So may of our young people are suffering today and we are here to help and bring awareness," she said. 

Dorothy Okung arrived on the red carpet with her son, Russell Okung of the Seattle Seahawks.

"It means everything to be here. I am grateful to have my son here with me to raise awareness," she said. 

They arrived in town on Thursday and have enjoyed the sunny weather in Newport.

"It's a beautiful place. There's a lot going on out here, different scenery then where we're from, from Texas," Russell Okung said.