By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Shrewsbury – A fundraiser, the first “Shaker Event,” will be held at the Manor restaurant in West Boylston on Sunday, Dec. 9, from 7-11 p.m. The event is being organized by longtime Shrewsbury resident Patti Shaker, as a way to raise funds for cancer patients who need monies to pay for some of their extra expenses.
Shaker herself was diagnosed with esophageal cancer three years ago. At that that time her situation was so dire that she was “told to go to a funeral home.” Thankfully she instead went to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, where she is still being treated.
Shaker, who is a nurse, unfortunately lost her job, causing her family to experience great financial stress, she said. A donation from the nonprofit Adam Bullen Memorial Foundation helped the family in their time of need.
“It came to us from out the blue, and really helped us so much,” she said.
Now, even though Shaker herself is still in treatment, she is focusing on paying that generosity forward.
“I am committed to help make a difference in someone else’s life who is struggling with the same disease,” she said. “I know of two people who are really having a hard time financially now. “
“A situation like this can really wipe out your savings,” she said. “Everything adds up – insurance co-pays, bills, tolls, parking. It can be so difficult.”
“I really want to help others. It’s what give me purpose each day.”
The event will also feature entertainment from DJ Jim Vuona (aka Shrewsbury’s Fire Chief.) Those who cannot attend but would like to help may reach out to Shaker at [email protected]. Other ways, Shaker said, are donating to the Adam Bullen Foundation (www.adambullen.com) or Dr. Enzinger Cancer Research Fund at Dana Farber.
