Story and Photos by Michael Brunk

Something a little different happened this past Friday (Feb. 26th) at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School in Burien. As the end of the school day approached, students and faculty gathered in the gymnasium.

That part isn’t so unusual for a high school.

It’s not often though, that they assemble to see a teacher get tattooed. At school. During the assembly!

The event was an outgrowth of the school’s recent “Every Lancer Against Cancer” awareness week. Part of the activities included raising money for several cancer-related funds. To spur the students on, American Government teacher Walt Kostecka issued a challenge (as we first reported here):

Raise $10,000 and he’d get inked.

The students threw themselves into the fundraising effort and Walt put himself in the hands of tattoo artist Bryan Kachel from Emerald City Tattoo & Supply – here’s a Photo Slideshow I shot at the event:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

That the students met their goal shouldn’t surprise anyone. As Principal Michael Prato noted, it’s difficult to find a family that hasn’t been touched by cancer in one way or another. Their enthusiasm for learning about cancer and its affects, and collecting donations, carried over into the assembly. As Walt sat onstage with Bryan and his buzzing tattoo needle, the students conducted a pep rally around him. Complete with the school’s band, shouting cheerleaders and plenty of spirited applause.

Asked afterward how it felt getting his first tattoo, Walt replied:

“It felt like being stuck in a blackberry bush… for an hour!”

Walt shared that the real experience was watching his students get involved and raise the $10,000. He’s already thinking about next year and kicking around the idea of sky diving. Based on the response of his family members in attendance, Walt may have a challenge himself meeting that goal!

Burien’s John F. Kennedy Catholic High School is holding a one-week “Every Lancer Against Cancer” fundraising drive from Jan. 25th through the 29th, and if their goal of $10,000 is met, veteran teacher Walt Kostecka (see his website here) has vowed that he’ll get a tattoo.

Kostecka is a Social Studies teacher who’s been at JFK for 34 years, and if the $10K goal is met, he’ll get a tattoo, chosen by an online poll (you can see and vote on it here).

Here’s the info from JFK’s website:

Every Lancer Against Cancer is a one week effort by the Kennedy family to raise money and educate ourselves about cancer. If our financial goal of $10,000 is met, Mr. Kostecka will get a tattoo.

Cancer awareness week is January 25-29.

If people want to donate they can send a check made out to Kennedy Catholic Cancer Awareness and mail to:

Kennedy High School c/o Walt Kostecka
140 S. 140th Street
Burien, WA. 98168

(Individuals are also encouraged to donate straight to the cause of your choice if you choose not to donate at Kennedy. )

Money raised at Kennedy will go to the following:

• Leukemia Society in honor of Brian McClusky and Courtney Caldwell
• Prostate Cancer Foundation in honor of Dave Danforth and Fr. Batterberry
• Fred Hutchinson Center in honor of Shane Cambronero, Gloria Strauss, Jennica McPherson, Steve Mclender and Richard Larkken?
• Candlelighters – an organization that helps families that have kids with cancer
• Terri Crosswhite who is fighting breast cancer

Throughout the week we will have various activities:

• In the front lobby of the school there will be boards placed where families can put pictures of family members who have lost the fight with cancer, pictures of family members who are presently fighting cancer, and family members who are cancer survivors.
• There will be an all school mass on Thursday, January 28th for the family members who have deceased, for family members fighting cancer and cancer survivors. All of the Kennedy family is welcomed to attend. The pictures of family members posted on the lobby will be brought to the Mass.
• The daily bulletin will have facts for the students about the fight against cancer.

Students are being asked to wear specific colors on the following days in support of various cancers:

• Monday Pink / breast cancer
• Tuesday Orange / Leukemia
• Wednesday Black / Melanoma
• Thursday Gold / Childhood cancer
• Friday Dark blue / Colon cancer

On Friday, January 29th, Mr. Kostecka will have a tattoo at the assembly if $10,000 is raised!

Here are the four tattoo candidates for Mr. Kostecka – which do YOU think he should get if the goal is met?:

You can help choose Mr. Kostecka’s New Tattoo by voting here.

A memorial will be held Wednesday night, Jan. 27th at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub for Cherisse Luxa, 62, founder of Burien’s “Drinking Liberally” group and community activist, who passed away from stomach cancer in December (read our report here).

The memorial begins at 7pm on Jan. 27th, and attendees are invited to bring photos and/or stories to share about her.

Known as one of the area’s most spirited Democrats, Cherisse was a well-respected organizer who had a hand in many local causes, including the attempted 2007 save of Burien’s Lora Lake Apartments.

Also, if you know of a home for Cherisse’s much-loved cats Howard and Harris (who are four years old and prefer to be adopted together), please contact Liz Giba at 206-605-3824 as soon as possible.

Here’s a flier with more info:

The American Cancer Society (ACS) will be holding its kick-off for the 5th Annual Relay For Life celebration Wednesday, Jan. 13th, from 6:30pm – 8pm, at Somers Auditorium in Highline Medical Center.

Last year, The B-Town Blog was proud to be a sponsor, and this year will be no different, as several members of our staff have been personally touched by cancer, and we’re committed to doing whatever we can to help defeat it.

This year’s event will be held June 12th & 13th at Highline Stadium.

Relay For Life was founded 26 years ago by Tacoma physician Dr. Gordy Klatt, and has grown to be the most recognized fundraising event for cancer nationwide, held in more than 5,000 communities and raising more than $3 billion toward cancer research, advocacy, education and patient services.

Over the past four years, the Relay For Life of Highline has brought over 600 people together from the cities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park and SeaTac participating on 86 teams, and raising over $272,000 total for the fight against cancer.

The Kickoff Celebration will provide information about Relay For Life and how volunteers can get involved in the fight against cancer. Attendees will enjoy food from Sal’s Deli, music, and coffee provided by Starbucks as they visit with volunteers, sharing stories of hope.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event in which teams will walk or run in shifts around the track for 19 hours. Participants traditionally camp out on the field, and, when they are not taking their turn walking, enjoy a variety of entertainment activities.

The Relay For Life of Highline will be held on June 12th & 13th at Highline Stadium in Burien. For more information, please call Kelly Cochran at 206-674-4103, or visit www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa.

Here’s a slideshow by Photographer Michael Brunk of last summer’s event:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

Sunday morning (Dec. 13th), Cherisse Luxa, 62, founder of Burien’s “Drinking Liberally” group and community activist, passed away from stomach cancer.

Known as one of the area’s most spirited Democrats, Cherisse was a well-respected organizer who had a hand in many local causes, including the attempted 2007 save of Burien’s Lora Lake Apartments.

Courtesy Daily Kos, where Cherisse’s friend cafecito wrote:

If you have ever attended Drinking Liberally, you almost certainly know of Cherisse’s incredible energy and her unstoppable drive to make our community a better place. From her decades as a King County Sheriff’s Deputy to her impressive track record as an activist an advocate, Cherisse made a huge difference, both for Burien and for the broader community.

Cherisse, like many of us, got religion with Howard Dean’s run.

Cherisse touched thousands of lives and was a role model for many of us. We will sorely miss her.

Here’s to a pioneering netroots activist, Cherisse Luxa. May she rest in peace. We’ll always be grateful for the work she did to make our state a better place to live.

Also, from Washblog comes this tribute from Noemie Maxwell:

I took this photo at a July 2007 Service of Lamentation held by clergy to protest the planned destruction of the Lora Lake moderate-income apartments in Burien.  Cherisse was instrumental in organizing the community to try to save this housing.  From left to right in this photo: Donald Bennett, Cherisee Luxa, Representative Tina Orwall from Washington’s 33rd Legislative District, Sarajane Siegfriedt.

Cherisse had incredible energy, intelligence and caring.  In the last in-depth email I exchanged with her, she told me she was working on her dissertation in the doctoral program on Leadership Studies at Gonzaga University. She was a retired sheriff’s deputy — as she put it, “a retired cop”, a victims’ rights advocate, and, among many other activities, worked in other countries to help identify the bodies of people who had died as victims of war crimes.  She co-founded Burien’s Drinking Liberally.

Cherisse had a keen and integrative intelligence — noticing and remembering details that few people see (she rescued me several times from errors in my stories) — but also thinking in a systems-oriented way — understanding the larger patterns, the connecting dynamics.  She was truly a pleasure to talk with as well as generous with her time and thoughts and help for others.  I feel truly sad that she has passed away.

PHOTO CREDIT: http://www.flickr.com/photos/98956852@N00/ / CC BY 2.0

Robin Hoof, longtime swim coach and teacher for the Highline School District, lost her battle against cancer and passed away on Oct. 22nd.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 8th at 1pm at the Highline Performing Arts Center, located next to Highline High School in Burien.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence or the “Pay for Play” sports program in memory of Robin.

Her mother has asked that people wear purple to the service, since that was Robin’s favorite color.

Donations can be sent to:

Highline Schools Foundation
245 Southwest 152nd Street, Suite D.
Burien, WA 98166
206-248-5196

Robin Hoof was a teacher and swim coach with the Highline School District for 20 years. At Evergreen High School she taught French, and also served as swim coach for the boys and girls teams at Highline High School.

Previously, we reported on a fundraiser car wash held by Advertiser Vision Collision in early October.

There is also a Facebook page called “Hope For Robin,” set up in Robin’s honor.

BTB Advertiser Vision Collision is sponsoring a car wash this Saturday and Sunday to help raise funds for Robin Hoof, a local teacher who is fighting breast cancer.

The event takes place on both this Saturday (Oct. 10th) and Sunday (Oct. 11th) from 11am to 5pm at Vision Collision, located at 803 SW 154th Street in Burien.

Robin Hoof has been a teacher and swim coach with the Highline School District for 20 years. At Evergreen High School she is a French teacher, and also serves as swim coach for the boys and girls teams at Highline High School.

In April 2007, Robin was diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing chemo and a mastectomy, she was considered in remission. In early 2009 she noticed a lump in her neck and was diagnosed for the second time in February. She again underwent chemo and then in the Spring she took her students to Europe. When she got back from that trip, she noticed she had a rather bad cough. Then in August she was admitted to Swedish Hospital where she continued chemo treatments, but her health was rapidly declining. Due to her compromised immune system, the doctors gave her the last chemo treatment on September 18th and told she and her mother, “any day now.”

That day has come and gone, and Robin is still fighting, but she needs your help (and you need a car wash, so this is a perfect match!).

Alternative forms of treatment are now being explored by her family, as those closest to her refuse to give up. Robin’s words to her mother at Swedish were, “I’m not going to let this get me Mom.” She’s in the fight of her life, and wants to beat this disease.

Here are some pertinent website links:

• Facebook Group: “Hope for Robin”
• Facebook page for Vision Collision’s car wash
• A local AVON representative is giving 30% of total sales to Robin’s cause

Here’s more info:

Amy Driscoll and her husband are graciously opening their doors on the weekend to help Robin. We need volunteers to hold signs and draw people in off the road, wash cars, and talk to the public about what’s going on with Hope for Robin. We are doing this BOTH days! Misty will be there with her laptop to push the AVON site. Get in touch with Kristina Todd (on my friends list) if you’re willing to volunteer. I will be visiting both Evergreen and Highline high schools Friday October 2nd to rally for business and volunteers. Thanks everyone

Car washes to be held at different times through out the year by the Driscoll family at Vision Collision.

And the big Kahuna…a charity climb in her honor to the summit of Mt. Rainier Summer ‘10.

Many have rallied around Robin by way of well wishes, donations, and offerings of volunteer work for her. But it’s not enough. More people are needed. Her medical bills are through the roof already, and as a person who’s touched as many people as she has, don’t we owe it to her? Isn’t it our job to give back. And giving Robin hope, is the best gift any human being can give to another.

Because 1 car, and $1 can make all the difference! And because ONE person can make a difference! Be a part of the Army of HOPE!

The annual Highline Relay For Life cancer fundraiser began at 3pm Saturday, June13th and continued all night until 8am Sunday, and we at The B-Town Blog were very proud to be sponsors.

Here’s a slideshow by Photographer Michael Brunk:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

by Sarah Slaughter
Team El Dorado Captain

Team El Dorado (a BTB Advertiser) will participate in their second Highline Relay tomorrow (Sat. June 13th) at Highline Field beginning with the Survivors Lap at 3pm. I am often asked why we choose to throw so much time and energy into this all-night event held each year on behalf of the American Cancer Society.

The simple answer is because cancer affects all of us at some point in our lives.

Prior to joining El Dorado West Retirement Community as their Executive Director, I spent much of my career in nursing. I remember my first dealings with the tragedy of cancer back in the early 90’s as a healthcare professional .

As a student in nursing school, I spent a few weeks of my clinical training on a med/surg unit in a Tacoma hospital. One of the RN’s who mentored me during this time was a 40-something, 6′6″-tall strapping man. He and I quickly developed a friendship and he became one of the more important teachers during my clinical experience.

I graduated from nursing school and immediately went to work for a Tacoma nursing home. Six months into my new nursing position, on the evening shift, I learned that we were receiving a new patient to my unit. As I prepared to go and meet him I noted the name was the same as that of my clinical mentor from a year ago. I proceeded to go into the small shared room and realized that it was the same man who had been such an important part of my education a few short months ago.

He was very incapacitated and the 135 lbs he now weighed stretched tightly over his 6′6″ frame. His eyes were closed and I quickly stepped out of the room to catch my breath. I had read that this patient had been diagnosed with brain cancer that had metastasized to many of his other organs. I believed this could not have possibly been the same man.

Unfortunately though it was. He was diagnosed shortly after we worked together and it was a fast moving cancer that had already been deemed incurable. He was coming into my care under hospice and was not expected to live long.

I had the honor of caring for him and hopefully repaying him somewhat for all of the wisdom he shared with me during his healthier time. He died quickly and peacefully and I have never forgotten.

This is why I Relay. For the other members of Team El Dorado their reasons are just as personal.

When I heard about the Highline Relay I knew instantly that this would be an event that all of our residents, staff, families and employees could share in.

I brought the idea back to the community at El Dorado West and they loved the thought of participating.

This year our team is made up of residents, staff and families all intent on living up to our team motto “Up All Night!!” We have members ranging in age of 11 to 90. Everyone takes part in their own way by fundraising, joining the team and walking the track on Relay night or by making sure Team El Dorado is cheered on here at the community that day.

Although the team officially has 15 members this year the real Team El Dorado is made up of all those in our community whose lives have been touched by a cancer diagnosis. We Relay for ourselves,or our sisters, brothers, parents, grandparents, friends, neighbors, patients, spouses, partners and others who have faced the words “you have cancer”. We Relay for those who have fought and won as well as those who have fought and lost. We relay for the chance to push vital research forward so no one else has to hear those words.

Please join us in our fight. Visit www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa to make your contirbution to the cure.

Highline walkers will walk around the clock in the battle against cancer during the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life starting at 4pm Saturday, June 13th and ending at 8am on Sunday, June 14th.

This celebration of life brings numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer together for a unified effort to fight back.

Twenty-eight teams of enthusiastic citizens will gather at Highline Memorial Stadium for an overnight relay against cancer, and here’s the schedule of entertainment during the event:

• 3pm: Opening Ceremonies and Cancer Survivor Victory Lap
• 5:30pm: Aeolin
• 7:30pm: Cake Walk
• 10pm: Luminaria Ceremony
• 6am: Stretches
• 6:30am: Pancake Breakfast
• 7am: Limbo!
• 8am: Closing Ceremonies

Highlighting the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost the battle against cancer. The luminaria line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.

Some of the sponsors of the Relay For Life include:

• Highline Medical Center
• Vertex Business Services
• Holland America
• Fred Meyer
• Sal’s Deli
• The B-Town Blog (we’ll see you there!)

Relay For Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants from all walks of life — including patients, medical support staff, corporations, civic organizations, churches, community volunteers and even community-activist local news blogs — to join together to fight cancer. Relay For Life reminds us that progress has been made in the fight against cancer and that everyone who participates is making a difference.

Information about how to form a team or become involved in Relay For Life is available from the American Cancer Society at 206.674.4103 or 1.800.ACS.2345, or visit www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information, call 1.800.ACS.2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

The Highline Medical Foundation has a simple question for you, and they’re not horsing around:

Q: What could possibly be more fun than watching the Kentucky Derby live simulcast at a VIP trackside tent at Emerald Downs, with a sumptuous buffet lunch and silent auction?

A: Well, helping a good cause at the same time! Highline Medical Foundation is sponsoring Hats on for Highline to raise money for cancer care and other patient care programs on Saturday, May 2nd, beginning at 11:30am at Emerald Downs in Auburn.

This will be an afternoon of fun and fashion, complete with regional delicacies, Mint Juleps and the traditional festive Derby Day hats.

Details include:

• It’s on Saturday, May 2nd
• Gates open at 11:30am
• Buffet will be served beginning at 12:30pm.
• A silent auction of hats and other items includes glamorous hats for women, upscale straw Panama hats for men, and even a Harley-Davidson motorcycle helmet!
• At 3:04pm post time, the bugle will call Churchill Downs jockeys to their mounts for the famous “Run for the Roses” Kentucky Derby.
• Attendees are welcome to stay at Emerald Downs until 7:00 p.m. to watch the full complement of live races at the track that day.
• There even will be a handicapper to explain the ABCs of horseracing for any novices.
• Tickets are $45 each, and include admission to Emerald Downs, seating in the VIP trackside tent, parking, program, racing form and tip sheet.
• Reservations, due by April 25th, can be made by calling 206.901.8500, or emailing events@highlinemedical.org

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The B-Town Blog proudly welcomes its latest Advertiser: the American Cancer Society, which provides hope for a cure for cancer through the upcoming Relay For Life, to be held June 13th and 14th at Highline Stadium.

Everyone knows someone who has been touched by cancer. And for the volunteers who are busy planning the 4th Annual Relay For Life of Highline, it’s those personal stories that keep them going.

Set to take place June 13th and 14at at Highline Stadium, the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life provides a way for everyone to fight back against cancer.

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity. Teams of people will camp out on the field at Highline Stadium and take turns walking or running around the track. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length, to represent that cancer patients battle the disease 24 hours a day.

Teams can be made up of family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors who have fun while raising much-needed funds to fight cancer and raise awareness. No matter who you are, there’s a place for you at Relay.

One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. The money raised at Relay saves lives by funding cutting-edge cancer research, early detection and prevention education, advocacy efforts, and life-affirming patient services. It is because of Relay that we are able to save lives, help those battling cancer and empower all to fight back against the disease.

Relay also allows all individuals an opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who have survived cancer and to remember those who have been lost to the disease. For the newly diagnosed, Relay is a healing experience that offers a chance to meet others who have claimed victory over cancer. For the caregivers who give their time, love, and support to their friends and family who face cancer it provides hope and understanding.

Highlights of the event include the Opening Ceremonies at 3pm which include the Cancer Survivor Victory Lap. The Victory Lap is an opportunity for the community to come together and show support for those who have gone through or are still fighting cancer. Immediately following the Victory Lap is the Cancer Survivors Social; all cancer survivors and their caregivers are invited to enjoy the good food and share stories with other survivors and caregivers. At 10pm, the Luminaria Ceremony provides a time for everyone to pause and reflect on those we have lost to cancer and those who are still battling the disease.

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature fundraiser and is planned by volunteers in our community. Event Chair Gary McNeil says he got involved “because I lost my dad to cancer and I wanted to feel like I was contributing to a solution. Relay provides me the opportunity to support cancer patients and really make a difference.” Gary started out as a team captain and stepped up to fill the role of Event Chair because “it’s an important cause to me, and I wanted to do what I could to help out.”

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. No matter who you are, we can help. If you, or someone you know, have been diagnosed with cancer the American Cancer Society can provide support and services to help you through the cancer journey.

If you would like more information about Relay For Life or services the American Cancer Society provides, please contact Kelly Cochran at 206.674.4103 or via email at kelly.cochran@cancer.org.

And please visit the website at www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa, where you can sign a team up, join one, or donate online.

We’ll see you there!

Here’s a video with more information:

by Gina Bourdage

The 25th annual American Cancer Society’s 2009 “Relay For Life” kick-off happened last Wednesday (Jan. 21st) at Highline Medical Center.

The evening began with hors d’oeuvres from Sal’s Deli and music from the group “Critical Mass,” a local jazz band comprised of some very talented members from the Burien community, including doctors from Highline Medical Center.

Entering its fourth year in Burien, “Relay For Life” gathered together team leaders, board members and local businesses to go over the goals for the June 13th – 14th event at Highline Stadium. Involvement in the “Relay For Life” provides lifesaving support for the American Cancer Society and programs.

Contributions and fundraising allow much-needed programs and efforts to be funded in the advancement for a cure, while sustaining ongoing efforts for survivors and families of cancer. Each team spends one day and one night celebrating and remembering those whose lives have been affected by cancer and provides them a way to fight back.

Margie Rodriguez, a two-time cancer survivor, was on hand to speak about what having cancer has done to change her perspective on life:

“It has taught me how to live. To enjoy the moment.”

Each year 3.5 million people in more than 4,900 communities participate. This year Burien has 11 teams signed up to participate and are looking for more. Last year the Highline Community had more than 515 register participants and raised more than $85,000. Four year participant and team captain of team Fam Damily, Patty Murray was present this year for the kick off 2009. Last year Murray’s team raised more than $10,000 through efforts from handmade painted pots sold for $5 each and garage sales.

Other teams include:

• The City of Burien
• City of Sea Tac
• Aviation High School
• Mt Rainer High School
• Many more

The event coordinators are hoping to have competitions between each city and high school team, however they are not all represented yet… (clearing throat voice Evergreen High School among others).

The event will start with a survivor’s lap and the evening will continue with music, entertainment and refreshments. Each team will take turns having at least one member on the track for the relay up to 24 hours. As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria, each of which has a special meaning. Some celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and have lived to tell their stories. Many remember the lives of those who have been lost to this disease. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor.

This year the overall fundraising goal is $95,000.

Will you be part of helping the fight for a cure? To participate, become a team captain or make a volunteer or monetary contribution please contact:

Gary McNeil
Event Co-Chair
Email: gmcnsoccer@comcast.net
Phone 206.390.3184

or

Kelly Cochran
American Cancer Society
Email: Kelly.cochran@cancer.org

For more information on Relay For Life visit www.highlinerelay.org.

Here’s a video with some more information:

Longtime Burien resident and active fundraiser Jeanene Laegreid passed away last July to GIST, a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer.

To honor Jeanene’s memory, many of her friends and neighbors are continuing her “Classy For The Cure” Auction to benefit the GIST Cancer Research Foundation. Raising funds for the GIST Cancer Research Foundation was very important to Jeanene, and her first auction in Nov. of 2007 raised over $7,000, so they want to keep this going and fulfill her wishes to continue fundraising.

WHAT: Silent Auction and “Classy for the Cure” store packed with homemade crafts from her village. Appetizers, Dessert and Wine/Beer will be provided.

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 14th (Valentines Day) from 6:30-9:30pm (two days before her birthday)

WHERE: St. Francis Church Unity Hall, located at 15216 21st Ave SW in Burien (map below)

COST: $25 per person (if prepaid by Saturday 1/31/09) or $30 at the door

INFO: Proceeds will go to GIST research and Komen Breast Cancer Research.

TICKETS: Call Lisa Grayson at 206-244-1772 or via email: lsg31@comcast.net

You can also mail checks to:

Classy for the Cure
2414 SW 149th
Seattle. WA 98166

The official kickoff celebration for the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) “Relay For Life” of Highline is Wednesday, Jan. 21st, from 7pm-8:30pm at Somers Auditorium in Highline Medical Center, located at 16251 Sylvester Road SW (see map below).

The event will provide information about Relay For Life and how volunteers can get involved in the fight against cancer. Attendees will enjoy food from Sal’s Deli, music by Critical Mass, and coffee provided by Starbucks as they visit with volunteers, sharing stories of hope.

Founded 25 years ago by Tacoma physician Dr. Gordy Klatt, Relay For Life has grown to be the most recognized fundraising event for cancer nationwide, held in more than 5,000 communities and raising more than $3 billion toward cancer research, advocacy, education and patient services.

In 2008, the Relay For Life of Highline saw over 500 people from the cities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park and Seatac participating on 38 teams, and raising over $87,000.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event in which teams will walk or run in shifts around the track for 17 hours. Participants traditionally camp out on the field, and, when they are not taking their turn walking, enjoy a variety of entertainment activities.

The Relay For Life of Highline will be held on June 13 & 14th at Highline Stadium in Burien. For more information, please call Kelly Cochran at 206.6744103, or visit http://www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.

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by Janet Grella

Earlier this week, I went in for my annual mammogram at Highline Diagnostics on SW 160th.

Like most “women of a certain age” (over 40 according to the American Cancer Society), this is something we don’t look forward to.  The squishing, the pain and discomfort of the unnatural-like positions and finally the waiting in a cold room while the Mammography Techs check each film to make sure one was readable.  Of course we are always delighted when we learn after a week or so that we’ve got an “all clear” for another year. Further I can recall some time ago when I had a “suspicious” mammogram and had to go back for more x-rays.  Waiting for the next appointment was nerve wracking for my family and me.

But what a difference a year makes – NO MORE FILMS! Late last year the Highline Cancer Center at Highline Medical Center (HMC) invested in new equipment – the Digital Mammography from GE Healthcare – for Highline Diagnostics.  According the GE’s website, ”digital mammography represents a breakthrough in the advancement of women’s health care. Digitally enhanced breast images have outstanding clarity and contrast, leading to a quick diagnosis and quality patient care”.

At Highline Diagnostics I could tell that Jill, my Mammography Tech, and Kris, “Tech In Training” were really excited about this new mammography device they now get to work with. According to them, the amount of unnecessary recalls are reduced by more than 20%; patient anxiety is minimized and the exam time is reduced.

Further, I didn’t get squished like before, the equipment was built to make the digital imaging less uncomfortable, and the only standing around I did was to look at my ‘digital breasts’ on a computer monitor screen.

According to Janinne Walker, Community Outreach Manager of HMC, my images were sent directly to the radiologists, and they will be read twice by radiologists, and then further by ‘CAD” (a computer reader).  At the same time the radiologists receive my digital mammography, they were also made viewable by other HMC specialists through a system called PACs, which allows providers to access the images through a password protected system.

But this story is not about me or my wonderful mammogram experience at Highline Diagnostics. It’s about all you women who put off your annual mammogram because it’s too painful, too awful, humiliating….whatever your excuse, in my opinion, you’ve run out of them.  As National Breast Awareness Month draws to a close, I want to remind you to make that mammogram appointment.

The American Cancer Society Guidelines for Screening Mammography are:

• Annual breast examination by a physician or other health practitioner
• Annual mammography beginning at age 40
• Monthly breast self-examination

Janinne at HMC tells BTB that they recommend starting mammograms at 35 years old (although most guidelines say 40), and that women can obtain a mammogram at any younger age with a doctor’s referral.

You can make your appointment at (206) 248-8900 and visit Highline Diagnostics at 160th, 275 SW 160th Street in Burien (right behind Sylvester Middle School).

The good thing for me was that it didn’t take long to get an appointment, and there was no waiting once I got there.

by Janet Grella

High winds and intermittent rain showers kept many people away, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of the 20 Burien businesses who hosted “Ladies Day Out” on Sat. Oct. 4th on SW 152nd in Burien.

Participants in the event purchased pink bandannas from participating businesses to enjoy special discounts all day and into the evening. 100% of all bandanna money was donated to the Highline Cancer Center.

Many businesses pledged part of their daily sales to Highline Cancer Center as well.

Here are some photos of the event:

[EDITOR'S NOTE: We're posting this story because cancer has touched our lives in more than one way, and BTB always strives to help and serve its community. Plus...come on – it's for a sick little girl...]

This Sunday, Sept. 21st, from 2:30-5:30pm, a benefit party will be held at Seattle Lutheran School in West Seattle (map below) for a sick little girl named Cora (photo at left), a pre-schooler who lives near White Center.

Cora was diagnosed with a Wilms Tumor, which is a cancerous tumor that blew out one of her kidneys. She had the tumor and the affected kidney removed in late June and has been having weekly chemotherapy treatments since. The prognosis is good, but she will get chemo through December to be certain they got all of the cancer.

The benefit is to help pay for Cora’s medical bills.

Cora, Cupcakes, a Clown, need we say more?

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 21st, from 2:30-5:30pm

WHERE: Seattle Lutheran High School Gymnasium, 4141 41st Ave SW
West Seattle, WA 98116

There will also be a silent auction with lots of tempting items, as well as “Team Cora” t-shirts for sale.

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According to Michele Smith of Vino Bello, Tuesday night’s “Burien Battles Cancer” fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation raised over $10,000.

47 prizes were donated and sold, bringing in more than $10,000, and raffle tickets raised nearly $2,500 in cash donations.

Sheila Lengle, who works for a local newspaper, and who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, served as the inspiration for the event.

 

Tonight’s another fundraiser night in B-Town, with a special Breast Cancer Auction starting at 5pm at Vino Bello, located at 636 SW 152nd Street.

The basics:

• Starts at 5pm and goes until 9pm
• $25 donation at the door
• All proceeds go directly to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
• Live jazz featuring the Brian Moss Trio
• Appetizers
• Prize raffle at 7pm

Some of the items up for bid include:

• Cannon Beach Trip – Two Nights for 4 at the Tolovana Inn ($800 value)
• Ocean Shores Trip – Two Nights at the Polynesian w/$160 Dining Experience at Mariah’s Restaurant ($560 value)
• Moclips on the Northwest – Two Nights at Ocean Crest ($550 value)
• Gift Certificate for Complete Power Teeth Whitening from Seahurst Dental Design ($750 value)
• Individual or Family Portrait Session w/11×14 portrait from Photography by Steven ($250 value)
• $150 Gift Certificate for Ding Removal from Northwest Dentman Inc.
• Two sets of 2 Tickets to Peter Pan from the Hi Liners ($100 value)

For full details on the fundraiser, including the entire list of donated items, click here.

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The Highline Relay For Life is holding their annual “Relay For Life” Event on Saturday/Sunday June 7th and 8th from 3pm to 9am (that’s right – it appears to be an overnight thing) at Highline Memorial Stadium (map below), to pay tribute to lives lost to cancer as well as raise money to help fight it all right here in B-Town.

They are also holding numerous fundraisers around the B-Town area, and they’ve got quite a few coming up, from an All-You-Can-Eat Pizza Party to Garage and Yard Sales:

• SUNDAY, 5/18, from 4pm – 9pm: All You Can Eat Pizza, salad, soup, garlic bread and sodas (beer & wine are extra) for only $15 for adults, $12 for kids 12 and under, at one of our favorite places in Burien: Bison Creek Pizza. Call (206) 433-6939 for tickets.
• FRIDAY 5/16 and SATURDAY, 5/17 9am – 5pm: The Possibilitarians Garage Sale at 20010 14th Ave S, SeaTac, WA
• SATURDAY 5/17, 9am – 5pm: Fam-Damily Garage Sale at 17136 2nd Ave. SW, Normandy Park, WA; Donations/Questions: Patty (206-248-0502)
• SATURDAY 5/17, 9am – 5pm: Burien Fred Meyer Team Garage Sale at 115 SW 140th St, Burien, WA
• SATURDAY 5/17, 6:30 pm: El Dorado West Bunco Night at 1010 SW 134th St, Burien, WA; Tickets $20 advance purchase (limited seating), Taco Buffet included and chance to win Whidbey Island Getaway. Call El Dorado West for more details (206) 248-1975

More info and full details available at www.highlinerelay.org

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Just got word from Dan the Sausageman that last night’s “Relay For Life” Cancer fundraiser at The Tin Room Bar raised $295 bucks.

Not bad for a Monday night – way to go all you generous B-Town drinkers!

Tonight (Monday, April 28), from around 3pm until closing, Dan the Sausageman is holding a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Highline Relay for Life at the Tin Room, located at 923 SW 152nd Street in Olde Burien.

Dan will donate a percentage of the entire day’s proceeds towards the local fight against cancer.

Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society’s signature event, is a fun-filled overnight experience designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. At Relay, people from within the community gather to celebrate survivors, remember those lost to cancer, and to fight back against this disease. Relay participants help raise money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society in its lifesaving mission to eliminate cancer as a major health issue.

During Relay For Life events, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks and take turns walking or running laps. The events are held overnight to represent the fact that cancer never sleeps. Through the survivors’ lap and the luminaria ceremony, we honor the people who have faced cancer first hand, and we remember those who have been lost to this disease.

But, Relay isn’t about taking laps — it’s about coming together in the fight against cancer. It’s a time to remember those lost to this disease and celebrate those who have survived. It’s a place where people connect with others, share the cancer experience, and find comfort and solace. And it’s an opportunity to build hope for a future where cancer no longer threatens the lives of the people we love.

As volunteers and donors, your efforts support research, education, advocacy, and services that allow the American Cancer Society to offer help and hope to people across the country when they need it most. By joining together at Relay, we celebrate life, friendship, and an opportunity to work to defeat cancer for future generations.

Sign up today to become a part of the Relay For Life effort in your community, and you too can fight back against cancer.

As both survivors and relatives of cancer victims, we here at the B-Town Blog raise a pint to those taking part in this fine fundraiser.

More info available at www.highlinerelay.org or here.

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