First KLS Fundraising Event Held in Boston-June 11, 2006
First KLS Foundation Fundraiser in Boston a Success Twenty five year old Rebecca Davis could no longer stand by as her childhood friend suffered from KLS. She felt compelled to do something to help. Her passion turned into action as she planned the KLS Foundation’s first fundraising event that took place on June 11, 2006 in Boston. Big City Pool, a popular restaurant and billiard hall was decorated and ready to welcome our guests.
It had rained in Boston for two weeks straight and when the sun shone on Sunday June 11th we wondered if everyone would rather want to spend the day outside. At three o’clock in the afternoon friends and neighbors started to come in. Over 80 supporters came and spent a fun afternoon chatting, playing pool and meeting each other. Three KLS families were present at the Fundraiser and it was wonderful getting to know each other. The venue quickly filled up. The scene was casual and friendly as folks stood in groups chatting, playing pool, greeting old friends and enjoying snack food. There were fabulous raffle prizes to win and everyone tried their luck at winning gift certificates to sporting good stores, restaurants, ice cream parlors, beauty salons and best of all, highly coveted tickets to Red Sox games. This is Boston after all.
Rebecca greeted the gathered guests. Then Dani, first diagnosed with KLS nine years ago at the age of 16 and now happily well for two years, spoke eloquently about his sister who is in the midst of a very long KLS episode. Varda Farber, a KLS Foundation Board member, then greeted the crowd. She spoke briefly about KLS and the important work the KLS Foundation is doing by connecting KLS families and doctors, and supporting vital KLS research with the goal of finding the cause and eventual treatment for the disorder that afflicts both of her children.
The funds raised from the admission fee and raffle were but a small part of the day’s success. Emails and letters about the event were sent to a wide circle of friends, many of whom responded with generous donations to the KLS Foundation. A total of over $8,000 generated by this fundraiser will be earmarked to further the ongoing KLS research at Stanford University and satellite labs.
The increased awareness about KLS and the excitement that was generated is already being felt. Individuals have volunteered to help the Foundation, and Dani Farber announced that he is planning a second KLS Fundraiser to take place in NYC this coming fall or winter. If you would like to plan a similar event in your hometown please contact the KLS Foundation and we will be happy to help you in your efforts.