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FOX 40 WICZ TV
Shari Wallace
10/5/2008 |
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 Traci's Hope Going Strong
For the past 5 years, Owego residents have gathered at Hickories Park on the first Saturday of every October...to remember their loved one, Traci Gibson.
"I have never met anyone like Traci, she was the most giving, loving person, I have ever ever met," said Pat Russell, Traci's friend and a breast cancer survivor.
Traci Gibson battled breast cancer for 8 years, and in 2003 she created the Traci's Hope BBQ, to help raise money for other local women fighting the disease.
Traci's Husband, Brian, says for the last 5 years of her life, Traci focused on improving the event, and now it has evolved into a widely-celebrated community event.
"That was her big drive, to get Traci's Hope up and running and now it's our job to keep it going," said Brian Gibson, Traci's Husband.
Thousands of people attended and the BBQ is expected to raise more than 30,000 dollars. But instead of putting the money towards research, these funds help residents struggling with medical bills, make ends meet.
"Our money doesn't go to research. Our money goes to the people out here in the community fighting the disease," said Gordon Shiner, Traci's Father.
Friends and family hope Gibson's dedication and determination, inspires others.
"Giving up was not in Traci's vocabulary, she battled it to the end and she battled it with a smile," said Russell.
Traci Gibson passed away two years ago, but friends and family say they can still feel her presence at this year's BBQ.
"We're not without her, she's here. And us who knew her, can feel her. We can feel her when we come in the park.
She's here," said Shiner.
"I guarantee this sunshine right here is coming from her today, she's smiling down on us," said Gibson.
***FOX40's Jacqueline Kane Reporting*** |
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