Cancer network holds annual fundraiser

Lynch Creek Nursery served as the setting for the Cancer Network of Sanders County’s (CNSC) 25th Anniversary Kick-Off Fundraiser.

Nestled among newly budding flowers and surrounded by the sounds of nature, 82 attendees gathered to support CNSC’s mission of assisting Sanders County residents currently undergoing cancer treatment. The organization provides help with lodging and transportation for those in need.

First organized in 2001, CNSC initially provided a one-time gift of $50 to cancer patients. That amount has since grown to $1,000. Last year alone, the organization distributed $80,000 in one-time gifts. Since its founding, CNSC has provided a total of $1,153,600 in support to local residents. 

In an opening statement, current president of the cancer network, Sherryl Wachob said, “On behalf of the board, I thank you for your past, present and future support. Supporting our community members dealing with the shock and immediate increase in unforeseen financial responsibilities due to a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming.” 

She continued, “Della, (owner of Lynch Creek Nursery), thank you for providing the perfect backdrop for this evening’s monumental 25th anniversary kickoff, as well as for the beautiful flowers for the raffle. Thank you to our volunteer musicians — Lisa French, Brett Barber and Joel Banham for providing the music; my husband Tom and Karin's husband Don for their assistance with parking; Randy Garrison for the use of his PA system; to all our businesses and volunteers for making this event possible; and of course, to each of you for attending. With all of your help, we hope to be here for another 25 years!"

The evening featured live music by Banham, former Plains mayor and current Council member, along with Barber on guitar and French, who both sang and played guitar. Between musical performances, attendees’ names were drawn for potted flower arrangements donated by Lynch Creek Nursery.

Food and beverages were available to guests, with contributions from Millie Winebrenner of Somers and Epic Eats of Plains.

Several individuals shared personal stories of their journeys as cancer survivors, adding a meaningful and emotional element to the evening.

The event raised $2,780. Admission was $25 and included mocktails, food, music and one raffle ticket for the Mystery Box. The Mystery Box winner, Marc Childress of Plains, received a collection of items including five prints by Judy Perkins, a candle warmer and candle, a seat pad, a small quilt, a bottle of Irish cream, a wooden hummingbird shelf, and $225 in gift certificates from local businesses.

“I, along with the other board members, was very happy with how the event went,” said CNSC Board Secretary Sue Johnson. “The weather was perfect, attendees enjoyed themselves, and the food, mocktails, and music were outstanding. We are already considering hosting a May Day event again next year. It was an amazing show of support for the Cancer Network of Sanders County.”

Those wishing to donate to CNSC may send a check to Cancer Network of Sanders County, P.O. Box 1311, Plains, MT 59859, or visit their website at: cancernetworksanderscounty.org/donate.

    Lisa French performs during the 25th Annual Cancer Network of Sanders County Fundraiser. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Joel Banham performs at the fundraising event. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)