HHH Fundraising Goal and Why the Olson Lab

Our Goal?  I believe we can raise $50,000 for the Olson Lab.  Maybe I’m dreaming, but I’ve seen what our community can do.  There is no better cause, no better way to help Hannah and so many other kids with brain cancer, than to give money that will go 100% DIRECTLY to finding a cure and saving lives.

We’re also dreaming big because I see this particular night as a one-time event.  Bringing Dr. Olson, Ed Viesturs, and Cheryl Broyles together is a unique opportunity to hear from these three mountain-climbing, courageous individuals.   This is a great opportunity to learn, to be inspired, and to give.

To help with Hannah’s Hopeful Hearts, we have already begun to receive monetary donations, both big and small.  Additionally, we have received other generous gifts for the event itself…salmon, wine, coffee, professional catering, music, etc.  We hope that by providing a reception, dinner, inspirational speakers and music, you will be able to give more to the cause of funding the Olson Lab.  Think of the cost of dinner out plus a movie!  And when was the last time you were so moved?

Why give?  Dr Olson, lead researcher of the Olson Lab, directs at least 15 others who, along with himself, are searching for clues in the battle against brain cancer.  Half of the equipment in the lab, many of the graduate students that staff the facility, and the funds for advancing some of the more speculative testing that is done is made possible by donations from Seattle Children’s guilds and patient families and friends like YOU!  Their research lab has no revenue stream, no patients, no alumni, and no product.  The money that we raise goes directly to fighting the war against cancer.  Brain cancer is one of the two most common forms of childhood cancer.  And less than 3% of cancer research is dedicated to children. (from the Circus of Dreams Guild.)

 

Why is the money needed now?   Current funds being raised will go to the following initiatives: 

  1. Advancing “Tumor Paint” to human clinical trials
  2. Developing more effective, less toxic therapies for infants and toddlers with brain tumors; (currently this group has an extremely poor outcome even with highly aggressive therapy.)
  3. Identifying new combinations of therapy that will be more effective; (this is the area which offers the most promise for Hannah.)

 

How to give?  There are lots of ways to actually give financially.  On the evening of March 19th, we will “raise the paddle”, with the help of our friend John Kaminski, to generate funds.  Many of you know John from other fundraising/auction events around the island.  Anonymous donor envelopes will also be available at Grace as a means to give.  We can accept cash, checks, or credit cards.  Finally, (and if you are unable to attend our event), you may donate online via our secure Seattle Children’s Hospital webpage. (See the link at the top of our HHH homepage.)

We know times our tough.  Many of our friends have been hit hard by current economics.  For over two years, many of you have been giving to our family in countless ways – meals, house cleaning, dog walking, gifts, money, friendship and support.  Even if you cannot give a lot, we hope that you will still come on March 19th.  But if you are in a position to give, we hope that you will do so generously, knowing in your heart what you are contributing to….HOPE.  Hope for Hannah and thousands of other kids and adults who are fighting for their lives.  Regardless of the size of your contribution, we are grateful for your gift! 

THANK YOU! ~ Reba Ferguson and Bill Hunt