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Kate's News

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July2, 2009

September 26, 2009 1pm - 5pm

BeerFest

 

June 1, 2009

Single Mom Finally Cancer Free

FORT PIERCE, FL—May 30, 2009—This month doctors finally gave Kate O’Connor the news she has waited five years to hear – she is cancer-free at last! Kate, a 37-year old single mom who has been fighting the rare cancer, Ewing’s Sarcoma, since 2004, received an outpouring of public support last year when doctors told her she had less than a year to live if she did not receive a lifesaving stem cell rescue procedure. Her insurance company would not cover the $200,000 treatment, so Kate’s HOPE was established to raise funds to help cover her medical expenses and living costs for she and her 12-year old daughter, Shannon. Thanks to generous donations from the community, Kate’s HOPE has raised almost $90,000, allowing Kate to receive the stem cell treatment at Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa last December.

Despite the successful treatment and “cancer-free” prognosis, life has not immediately gotten easier for Kate and Shannon. Kate has been in near constant pain since having two-thirds of her left lung removed last fall, and the intensive chemotherapy has depleted her immune system and caused chronic nausea. She cannot work yet, but bills associated with the procedure are still coming in, leaving her with over $50,000 in bills for treatment associated with the transplant.

Kate’s HOPE is working to raise that $50,000 by September 30 of this year. Next month, the 10th Annual St. Lucie Draft House Charity Golf Tournament will partially benefit Kate’s HOPE.

Kate O’Connor, a single mother of a 12-year old daughter and active community volunteer, was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma in 2004. After undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and extensive surgeries, a $200,000 stem cell transplant was her only chance to survive the rare form of cancer. However, her insurance company considers this an experimental treatment and has refused to cover the cost. The Moffitt Cancer Center pledged a $100,000 grant for Kate’s treatment, and Kate’s HOPE has raised almost $90,000, allowing Kate to receive this life saving treatment. Kate is continuing to recover from this devastating disease, and Kate’s HOPE is working to raise additional funds to cover her remaining medical and living expenses.

 

March 11, 2009

Kate’s HOPE Presents Flowers & Treasures for Kate to Benefit Single Mom’s Fight Against Cancer

FORT PIERCE, FL—March 11, 2008—Friends of Kate O’Connor, a 37-year old single mom fighting Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, will host “Flowers and Treasures for Kate on Depot Drive.” The art show and sidewalk sale will be held Saturday, March 21, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Rocio’s Closet at 148 North Depot Drive in Fort Pierce. The event, a collaboration by the Treasure Coast Art Association and Rocio’s Closet, benefits Kate’s HOPE, a fund established to help cover Ms. O’Connor’s medical care and living expenses. The sale coincides with many other downtown activities, making it a great day to visit Fort Pierce and enjoy the stunning waterfront, Sandy Shoes Festival, Farmer’s Market, and Flowers for Kate.

The Treasure Coast Art Association, is organizing the art show with works by local artists. Works may be in any media, as long as each features a flower as part of the composition. Artists pay a $10.00 entry fee to participate in the show, and many of the pieces will be available for sale with a portion of the sale price going to Kate’s HOPE. The public will judge the artwork throughout the day with a “Best of Show” prize awarded at the end of the show. To participate in the art show please contact Jeanne Johansen at 772-359-9095 or jlynnsilks@yahoo.com.

In addition, a sidewalk sale hosted by Rocio’s Closet will feature professional clothing, suits, and accessories. “We had a hugely successful Suit Sale at the Realtor’s Association in November,” says event organizer, Victoria Morhardt, “many people have asked when we would have another one.” In addition to professional clothing and accessories, Rocio’s Closet, a downtown consignment boutique, will also offer family and children’s clothing and selected toys and household items, all with a portion of the proceeds going to benefit Kate’s HOPE. To donate good quality suits, shoes and accessories, drop donations at Rocio’s Closet or at the Realtor’s Association of St. Lucie County at 6666 South U.S. Highway 1, Port St. Lucie. For more information contact Rose at Rocio’s Closet at 516-450-7303 or Victoria Morhardt at 772-201-5999, or email victoria@bostonnationaltitle.com.

Kate O’Connor, a single mother of a 12-year old daughter and active community volunteer, was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma in 2004. After undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and extensive surgeries, a $200,000 stem cell transplant was her only chance to survive the rare form of cancer. However, her insurance company considers this an experimental treatment and has refused to cover the cost. The Moffitt Cancer Center pledged a $100,000 grant for Kate’s treatment, and Kate’s HOPE has raised another $80,000, allowing Kate to receive this life saving treatment. Kate is continuing to recover from this devastating disease, and Kate’s HOPE is working to raise additional funds to cover her remaining medical and living expenses.

 

January 24, 2009

My apologies to all of you who have asked about Kate in recent weeks. Never fear, while the Kate's HOPE team used the holidays to catch our collective breath, Kate took the time to continue her fight against Ewing's Sarcoma.

So, while we were all enjoying our holiday festivities, Kate was celebrating the holidays by undergoing a battery of of tests and procedures. While her treatment has left her immune system badly depleted, and forced her to be away from her loved ones, Kate continues to meet every challenge with her usual smile and fearless attitude (as you can see in the attached photo).

Kate has another reason to smile these days. Thanks to your unselfish help, she is just $12,000 away from being able to pay for all costs associated with the lifesaving stem cell transplant.

That's right, you have helped Kate's HOPE raise over $88,000 for Kate's treatment.

If you have given to Kate's HOPE before, thank you. If you haven't, please consider making a contribution now. With your continued help, we can help Kate raise the $100,000 she needs.

Remember, now is the time to set up your tax-deductible contributions for 2009. Thanks to the Silent Angels your donations to Kate's HOPE are now tax deductible. Simply make your check payable to Silent Angels and direct it to Kate's HOPE in the notes section. You'll receive a valuable tax deduction, and Kate's HOPE will be one step closer to our goal.

Thank you again and best wishes for a hopeful 2009 from all of us at Kate's HOPE.

Thondra Lanese

Kate in hosp

 

November 19, 2008

It’s the coolest auction prize ever:

A Big Toys Rodeo

You and three of your friends will train on heavy machinery like bulldozers, backhoes, and cranes. Then it’s off to the “man pit” to compete against the clock in a test of skills.

Winner takes all bragging rights – because this is a one-time only event.

The Big Toys Rodeo only comes to town once.

And there’s only one way to win this unique prize: come down to the Kate’s HOPE Crazy T’s benefit this Thursday, November 20, at the Pelican Yacht Club and bid, bid, bid!

 

Crazy T’s benefit for Kate’s HOPE.

 
Wear your craziest t-shirt and join us for a night of fun
to benefit Kate’s HOPE*.

Thursday, November 20, 2008
6:00-8:30 PM
Pelican Yacht Club
1120 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce, FL
       
Tickets $25.00
• Live Auction with Jane Rowley
• Silent Auction
 • Photos with Santa
• Appetizers
• Cash bar
 • Homemade Desserts
• Music by the band called “Bob”

Buy your tickets today.

Call 873-3225 or visit www.KatesHOPE.com

Thank you for your support!

 

November 12, 2008

UPDATE!

We have right now a total of ….. drum roll please….

$51096.56!!!!!

That's right, we have passed the $50K mark!!!!!!

This includes all the proceeds from the Suit Sale, Crazy Ts ticket sales, and mailed donations.

 

November 12, 2008

Get it all at the first ever Crazy T's benefit for Kate's Hope

Wear your craziest t-shirt and join us for a night of FUNraising.

Thursday, November 20, 2008 6:00-8:30 Pelican Yacht Club 1120 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce, FL

Cabin

Live Auction with Jane Rowley Including a chance to bid on a one week getaway in a fabulous cabin in Georgia.

Silent Auction There's still time. Your fabulous donation could go here. Call 873-3225 to donate your auction item.

Caricatures

Photos with Santa

• Appetizers • Cash bar

Homemade Desserts

Music by the band called “Bob”

Just one week left. Buy your tickets today.

Afraid you won't know anyone? Bring a friend! Tickets are just $25.00.

Call 873-3225 or visit www.KatesHOPE.com

Thank you for your support!

November 4, 2008

Wear Your Favorite T-Shirt for Kate's Hope November 20th at Pelican Yacht Club

FORT PIERCE, FL-October 8, 2008-Friends of Kate O'Connor, a 37-year old single mom in need of a stem cell transplant, will kick off the holiday season with a lighthearted fundraiser Thursday, November 20, 2008 at the Pelican Yacht Club. Crazy T's is a chance to wear your favorite jeans and t-shirt while hanging out with friends and enjoying food, fun, and music. The event benefits Kate's HOPE, a trust fund established to raise funds for Ms. O'Connor's care.

      The event is the brainchild of local PR person, Camille Yates. "It's a great chance to spend some time with friends before the holiday rush begins. It's also a way for us to help a real friend to the community, Kate O'Connor," explained Yates. "It should be really fun seeing the wild and crazy tee shirts that people wear. The zanier, the better!" The event, which runs from 6:00-8:30 p.m., includes cocktails, appetizers and homemade desserts; a silent auction; a live auction hosted by Jane Rowley; and music by the band called "Bob." Tickets are just $25.00 per person.

      Guests are encouraged to shop for a new favorite t-shirt by visiting www.KatesHope.com <http://www.kateshope.com/>  and clicking on the Shop to Earn link. Busted Tees will donate 12% of your purchase to Kate's Hope. Donated items for the live and silent auctions are also being accepted. To donate or buy tickets, call Michelle Miller, Kate's Hope trustee, at 772-873-3225. All proceeds from the event go to Kate's HOPE.

      Kate O'Connor was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma four years ago. Although her doctors believe a stem cell transplant is her only chance to survive the rare form of cancer, her insurance company considers it an experimental treatment and will not cover the cost. Kate's HOPE, a trust fund to benefit O'Connor, was established as the Kate O'Connor Trust Fund at Seacoast National Bank to raise funds for her medical care. To learn more visit www.KatesHope.com.

 

November 3, 2008

Subject: Family Garden Portraits for a great cause

Please see the information below about a great opportunity to have your family's portrait taken in beautiful Heathcote Botanical Gardens by local photographer Iva Campbell. This is not only the perfect chance to photograph your family for the holidays, it is also a fundraiser to benefit Kate O'Connor.

Kate's HOPE has raised a third of the money Kate needs to have a lifesaving stem call transplant. We have just 6 months to raise the remaining $60,000. Your help is greatly appreciated by both Kate and her daughter Shannon.

To learn more about Kate and Kate's HOPE, please visit www.KatesHope.com. If you would like to receive updates on her progress and notice of other fundraising events, please send a blank email to katesnews@kateshope.com.

Thank you!

Thondra Lanese

e. thondralanese@hotmail.com
c. 941-321-0339

 

October 23, 2008

Beth Hutchinson will also have the latest Silpada Jewelry design at Art and the City this Saturday. If you love Silpada, this is your chance to indulge yourself – with all profits going to benefit Kate O'Connor!

Plus shop the latest creations by Anita Prentice, Colleen Nash Becht and Ginny Piech Street.

See you there.

ART AND THE CITY
Saturday, October 25TH — 3 – 7 PM
2017 South Indian River Drive

Anita Prentice — Colleen Nash Becht — Ginny Piech Street

Pre-Holiday Gifts, Libations and a Surprise Visit from “Mr. Big”
Colleen Nash Becht, Anita Prentice, Ginny Piech Street, together again, to present their cornucopia of fine art. Hosted by patrons Dan & Sue Dannahower, the show promises to be a stellar event. Ginny crafts whimsical collages, Anita works with glass to create colorful mosaics and Colleen is an award winning watercolorist. Collectively, they will offer a large selection of vibrant and unique works of art. For more information please call Sue Dannahower at 772-618-0155. ART AND THE CITY is a FREE event with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the restoration of the Platts/Backus House and the Kate O’Connor Benefit Fund.

Let’s Get This Party Started!!!

 

October 22, 2008

Channel 12 covered yesterday's lunch at the Pelican Yacht Club to benefit Kate O'Connor. Please watch.

Jana Eschbach takes a look at one local mom's fundraiser to receive life-saving cancer treatment.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1137883291/bclid1143359274/bctid1870898795

 

October 21, 2008

As of today, you have helped Kate's Hope raise over $30,000 to help Kate O'Connor receive a lifesaving stem cell transplant.That's almost one third of the money she needs to battle this brutal cancer.

But don't stop yet. We need another $70,000 to get her this necessary treatment.

What can you do?

Make November Kate O'Connor month.

Believe me, there's nothing like hearing this amazing woman's story to make you count your blessings. So make Kate part of your personal Thanksgiving celebration. Here's how:
Have your family portrait taken at beautiful Heathcote Botanical Gardens. November 8 and 9, photographer Iva Campbell, is donating $100 from every portrait sitting at the Gardens to Kate's Hope.
Spend an evening with the girls. It's a girl's night out and used suit sale at RASLC (the Realtors Association of St. Lucie County) on November 11. All proceeds go to Kate's Hope.
Party, party, party at Crazy Ts. Wear your favorite t-shirt with a pair of jeans and join us at the Pelican Yacht Club November 20 for music, food, and fun – plus live and silent auctions. Tickets are just $25, so there's no excuse not to be there. Again, all proceeds go to Kate's Hope.
Start your Christmas shopping early. Visit KatesHope.com and click on Shoptoearn.net/shopforkate. As much as 20% (or more) of every purchase will be donated to Kate's Hope.
Or just make a donation directly to Kate's Hope. Make checks payable to the Kate O’Connor Trust Fund, c/o Miller Insurance, LLC, 8505 S. Federal Highway, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952. You can also make a donation at any Seacoast National Bank branch under the name of "Kate O'Connor Trust Fund," or donate online with PayPal at www.KatesHope.com.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

– Thondra

P.S. We are still accepting donations for the live and silent auctions November 20. Just call any Kate's Hope team member (like me) or Michelle Miller at 772-873-3225.