Young Avon Woman's Cancer Battle Inspires Major Canton Fundraiser

Shops at Farmington Valley

CANTON/AVON, CT — Inspired by a young Avon woman's cancer fight, a prominent Cantoin shopping destination is hosting a major event Saturday that will both entertain the family and, perhaps, save the lives of children.

The Shops at Farmington Valley will host Valley Fest, a day of fun and community engagement, on Saturday, Sept. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Valley Fest is inspired by the popular "Truckyard Touch-a-Truck" events of year's past and is dedicated to raising awareness for pediatric cancer research.

Tickets are $10 per family and all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Logan's Foundation for Childhood Cancer, an organization close to the heart of the Farmington Valley community.

“The idea for Valley Fest was brought to us by Morgan Platt, a 20-year-old Avon resident who has bravely faced brain cancer since childhood and remains a source of inspiration for all,” said Elizabeth Ackerman, general manager at The Shops at Farmington Valley.

“After meeting with Morgan, we connected with our local vendors, such as Winterberry Garden, the Canton Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue, and the Town of Canton Police Dept., who are all generously donating their vehicles and their time to help staff this exciting event.

"We have an incredible community here in the Farmington Valley and it’s so heartwarming to have their support.”

Platt said her suffering and seeing the suffering of others prompted her to battle not only her cancer but other children's illnesses as well.

"In June 2011, I was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiform IV, and during my initial treatment, I witnessed the suffering of many young people. At one point, six kids from my town were undergoing chemotherapy at the same time, and tragically, we lost two courageous warriors," Platt said.

"These experiences motivated me to make a difference for pediatric cancer patients and with September being Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, I approached Liz at The Shops, and with her support and amazing vision, Valley Fest was born. To date, we have raised well over $5,000 to support clinical trials in the hope of finding a cure."

Among the Valley Fest highlights are:

• Touch a Truck: Explore and interact with a variety of big construction vehicles. Climb aboard and experience these impressive machines up close.

• Meet a Minion: Bring the little ones to meet one of their favorite characters! Don’t miss out on the chance to snap a picture with a friendly Minion.

• Ballerina Meet-and-Greet: Meet talented ballerinas from New England Ballet Theater and learn about their dedication and grace.

• Fancy Car Display: Car enthusiasts will love our selection of fancy cars on display.

The first 100 families to register to attend the event will receive a complimentary new Valley Fest Tote as a keepsake.

For more information, visit https://theshopsatfarmingtonvalley.com/event/valley-fest/. To register, visit Eventbrite.

For more information on Logan's Foundation for Childhood Cancer, click on this link.

For more information on the Shops of Farmington Valley, click on this link.