Events
We Launched our North Carolina Chapter on March 26
"It's About Life" Lunch 'n' Learn in North Carolina
by Karen Ambrogi
In this community, where there are few strangers, we were privileged and deeply moved to observe the network of friends, family and neighbors who rallied to support one of their own in the realization of a dream, the creation of a non-profit that builds a bridge to hope, dignity and life for cancer patients and their families. It was bittersweet.
Cancer is never a pleasant subject. We were there because Erin Miller VanGorder lost her first husband, Mike, to cancer several years ago and the family experiences throughout his illness were the impetus for creating Lazarex Cancer Foundation. Over two years ago, Dana Dornsife, Erin’s sister, initiated the start-up of Lazarex and the fundraising campaigns that have provided assistance to over 60 recipients to date. So, we were also there to celebrate our successes! Many of those in attendance lost a friend, a co-worker, a brother and a neighbor when Mike died. Now, this local chapter expands the opportunity to do something positive for others in need and in crisis. And many rose to the occasion! To date Lazarex Cancer Foundation has received over $10,000 in donations from the luncheon attendees and surrounding communities.
The room was filled to capacity as over 110 participants attended a luncheon to launch the North Carolina chapter of Lazarex Cancer Foundation. Presenting on behalf of Lazarex were Erin Miller VanGorder and Holly Webster, board members and co-chairs of the North Carolina chapter; Dana Dornsife, President, and Susan Sappington, Director of Development. Speaking from the perspective of receiving assistance from Lazarex were Shay and Danny Thompson, daughter and son-in-law of a Lazarex patient (read Ruth’s story). LuAnn Rivenbark, a resident of Wallace, NC, gave the invocation before lunch was served.
In addition to making donations, many volunteered to help with Hogs ‘n Hens for Hope, a cook-off and festival fundraiser to be held at the Duplin County Events Center on October 17th. We are deeply grateful to the people of Duplin County, NC and Duplin Winery, who donated the venue for our Lunch & Learn and generously discounted the cost for a delicious luncheon. A wine tour & tasting was held for interested attendees following the conclusion of the event.
Lazarexas Erin Miller VanGorder, Holly Webster, Susan Sappington and Dana Dornsife
Shay & Danny Thompson spoke about their experience of Lazarex as family members of Ruth, a North Carolina resident and Lazarex patient.