1,000-plus help Traci's Hope Breast cancer victims get aid

Attendees fill their plates with food at the barbecue.

Dylan Shiner, 2, shows his father, Justin Shiner, the gift basket he would like to win. The basket filled with toy trucks, cars and tools is one of many raffled off Saturday at the fourth annual Traci's Hope Barbeque at Hickories Park in Owego.

A little more than a year after Traci Gibson's life was taken by the ravages of breast cancer, her legacy -- Traci's Hope Barbeque -- lived on Saturday at Hickories Park.

As in years past, more than 1,000 supporters showed up at the fourth annual fundraiser to help those diagnosed with breast cancer pay for what they need -- mortgage payments, gas cards and other items not typically covered by insurance.

Last year's event raised $50,000, Traci's husband, Brian, said. "We're hoping to meet that again," he said.

Those who attended enjoyed unseasonably balmy weather in addition to food, music and games. Also, there were raffle tickets for a myriad of gifts donated by local individuals and businesses.

Town of Owego board members presented Brian Gibson and his three children -- Nathan, Shane and Jesse -- with copies of a recent resolution naming a Hickories Park pavilion in memory of Traci Gibson.

Saturday's event was his second trip to the fundraiser, said Apalachin teenager Matthew Russell, a friend of Jesse Gibson.

"I think it's great," he said. "I like what Traci's Hope is doing for breast cancer."

In the years since the first barbecue, other fundraisers have been created for the nonprofit group Traci created, Brian Gibson said, including a golf tournament.

Organizers are already looking toward next year, asking for recipes to include in "Traci's Hope Cookbook II 2008."

The day brought smiles, tears and lots of hugs, as people celebrated and opened their pocketbooks and wallets to help those in need.

"It turned out pretty nice," Traci's sister, Tammi Shiner-Neira, said.

Some of the event's traditions, such as the release of pink balloons by children, have a tender spot in her heart, she said.

"It's just touching every time they do it," Shiner-Neira said