You may recall that Traci Gibson, who started Traci's Hope, died of metastatic breast cancer October 3, 2006. Traci's parents, Gordy and Mary Shiner, with the help of many family members and friends are organizing this year's fundraising event. It is the hopes of the organizers that this year will be just as much of a success as last year. The event welcomed more than 3,000 people last year and raised $45,000 that will support local families. Traci's Hope assisted a total of 16 families affected with breast cancer this past year.

This year's event is planned for Saturday, October 6th, at Hickories Park between 1 and 7 p.m. A $12 donation per adult is requested at the event with all proceeds benefiting those fighting breast cancer in Broome and Tioga Counties. Ages 6 to 12 are $5. Activities at the event will include a BBQ, Music, a Red Cross blood drive tent, free cancer screening signup, a raffle table, and a tethered balloon ride and bounce house for the kids. Also, gathering at Hiawatha Motorcycles, a ride will be held in conjunction with the event to benefit Traci's Hope. Registration for the 60-mile ride will begin at 11:30 a.m. with a departure at 1. The ride will end at the Hickories Park benefit. For more information on the ride you can contact BJ at 761-7290 or Sharon at 343-5976. The ride is co-sponsored by A&M Disposal and Hiawatha Motorcycle.

Traci's Hope is always looking for families to support and applications can be filled out by patients themselves, friends and family, as well as hospital staff that might see someone struggling financially during their difficult time. Traci's Hope isn't for medical bills, it is to help those with past due bills, a broken appliance, childcare, the list goes on. Traci knew first hand the difficulties of keeping your finances afloat while dealing with this terrible disease.

Applications are online as well as at the oncology offices. Traci's Hope is also organizing a Red Cross Blood Drive to be held the following Friday, October 12, 2007 at the Apalachin Elementary School. People are welcome to sign up the day of the benefit or on a walk in basis. Traci wanted to ensure that she was helping many people - even after she was gone. It is amazing to see how many lives she continues to touch. To learn more you can visit the official website located at www.tracishope.com.

 
©Owego Pennysaver 2007