Michelle Phaup and ‘Lend A Helping Hand? host a walkathon Saturday, Oct. 25 at Depot Park from 9 a.m. to noon. Proceeds will benefit Jean Cavalier, local resident and artist, with expenses in her fight with breast cancer.
‘We’ll take the 2.5 mile loop from Depot Park down White Lake Road to Dixie Highway left to Main Street to Depot Park,? said Phaup, founder and director of Lend a Helping Hand. ‘We’re asking everyone to wear Pink or a Halloween costume. We’re hoping to have family participation with lots of kids.?
Phaup met Cavalier, while they were both realtors for Max Broock. They have been friends for 20 years.
‘I heard about Jean having breast cancer while at the Farmer’s market a few days after she was diagnosed. Her courage and optimism since her diagnosis is remarkable,? she said.
‘I immediately wanted to help. Jean has many friends in this community who want to show their support and help in some way. Phyllis Coon, one of Jean’s friends and neighbors, called me to say that she appreciated Lend A Helping Hand organizing the event.?
Phaup said the event will not only raise money for uninsured medical expenses, but also allow friends and community members to ‘lend a hand.? The goal is to raise $3,500.
‘It’s a pleasant surprise,? said Cavalier. ‘I think it’s wonderful.?
Phaup founded the non-profit organization in 2002, to assist individuals faced with a terminal illness or life altering disease raise money to pay for medical costs.
Her first fundraiser was 1989 where she and a group of realtors organized a bowl-a-thon and raised $30,000 for Shannon Clark, a 12-year-old who was diagnosed with sarcoma in her leg.
‘From that point on, I’ve had people contact me and tell me about a family member or friend in need with similar circumstances,? she said.
‘I think it’s a tragedy that people are faced with not being able to pay for medical treatment; and, in some cases living expenses, while already facing a catastrophic illness. I believe as a community we can come together and make a difference.?
Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Depot Park. For more information, call 248-394-1415 or visit lendahelpinghand.org.