Generosity shines at My Breast Cancer Support event

RYE — A tide of generosity rolled in to the 7th annual Evening by the Sea Gala on Sunday Aug. 12, bringing a fresh wave of support to local breast cancer patients. Community members came out for a lively evening under the tent at the Wentworth by the Sea Country Club to help local patients undergoing treatment. With a large silent auction featuring works from local artisans, travel adventures, spa visits, ski and golf packages, and more, bidders generously engaged for the cause. In addition, raffle boxes sold out within the first hour as guests hoped for the grand prize rose gold bracelet from Springer’s Jewelers and enjoyed a variety of other gifts.

A mix of new and familiar faces enjoyed music, food and good company knowing that their support would make life easier for patients in troubled times. As patient speaker Penny Jacques stated, “It is unbelievable to learn in your darkest hour, that there are people out there, who have never even met you, that are willing to help.”

Sponsored by Exeter Hospital, New England Cancer Specialists, York Hospital, Riverwoods, Bank of New Hampshire, Beaver Dam Campground, Captain Lord Mansion, Seacoast Dream Dentistry, Kevin O’Brien Wealth Management, the Wentworth Marina, Sperry Tents and other caring businesses, the evening brought together over 200 community members somehow touched by breast cancer.

“We are so grateful for the community’s ongoing support. It makes such a difference in the lives of our patients,” stated Executive Director, Jennie Halstead.

My Breast Cancer Support, a Portsmouth-based 501(c)3 provides financial and emotional support to area patients. Partnering with eight cancer centers in the Seacoast of New Hampshire and Southern Maine, the organization helps provide household assistance, living expenses, wellness opportunities and more to patients in need who are undergoing treatment.

Current statistics show that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and over 2,700 new cases will be diagnosed in Maine and New Hampshire this year alone. New Hampshire has the highest incidence of breast cancer in the United States.