Benefit to Aid Families of Children With Cancer Slated In Somers

SOMERS, CT — The legacy of a courageous young woman who always put the needs of others as a priority even when she was battling and ultimately losing her long fight with cancer will be continued Saturday with a family-friendly event, with proceeds aiding area families with children going through treatment.

Kyla Pokorny, a 2015 graduate of Enfield High School, succumbed to Ewing's Sarcoma in April 2017 at age 20 after a six-year battle. She was actively involved in numerous charities and had also started several fundraisers for cancer organizations, helping many children she met during her time at Connecticut Children's Medical Center (CCMC).

A volunteer organization called Kyla’s Krusaders focuses on kids with cancer at CCMC. Members collect toys, gift cards, electronics and clothing for families of patients, and fulfill Christmas wish list requests. The group also supplies Kyla’s Kloset at the hospital with toys throughout the year.

"Making sure kids having treatment at Connecticut Children’s Hospital had something to do to break up their day was one of Kyla's passions," program director Lynn Piemonte said. "This is how Kyla’s Kloset was started."

Last year, the group was able to assist six families in need during the holiday season.

"Last December, we continued Kyla’s Christmas Cheer," Piemonte said. "We collected toys, gift, grocery and gas cards and donations. We took care of the entire family. It was a labor of love for all of us involved."

To support the organization's efforts to aid families, Kyla's Harvest Party will take place this Saturday on the Knights of Columbus grounds on Route 190. The event runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m., and will feature live music from Sage King at 6 p.m. and Jamie's Junk Show at 7:30 p.m. Food from Rolling Smokehouse will be available for purchase.

"This is our first event as Kyla’s Krusaders, and we are so excited to see all our friends that have supported our girl throughout the years," Piemonte said.

Due to state regulations during the coronavirus pandemic, a maximum capacity of 100 guests will be allowed to attend the outdoor event, and masks are required. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy or any type of gift card to assist the families. Everyone attending will receive a custom-created Christmas ornament, designed by local artist Heidi Crane.

Tickets are $25, and may be obtained at Pizza Palace in Enfield, by Venmo @KylasKrusaders or by visiting https://www.payit2.com/event/112473.

Anyone with questions may contact Piemonte at 860-250-9755.

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