'Blocks of Love' Builds Hope

Cancercare’s annual fundraiser hosts much more than just Legos. was bustling with people, including more than 80 volunteers and over 300 builders walking through the halls of the high school among video game rooms, craft booths, photo-op areas, a Lego store, a dining area, and informational booths.

Kristen Morris of Cancercare spoke of the increasing number of volunteers. "We couldn’t do it without them," she said. Cancercare and sponsors host many other events throughout the year and Morris acknowledged the importance of volunteers to help with the endeavors.

One of the main aspects of Cancercare's quest is to provide a coping mechanism for supoort for children and families who have a loved one with cancer, according to members of the Cancercare team. "It’s really about creating an event that’s all about helping families, help families," Sandra Tripodi, the Regional Director of Social Services for Connecticut Cancercare, said. 

Jacob Rodier, 13, of is a Lego Master Builder who has donated his time and building skills -- as well as his Bar Mitzvah money -- to Cancercare. Rodier understands "How hard it can be," his mother said.

Some of Rodeir’s Lego constructs were on display as he sat at a booth building a new piece while passersby observed. Rodier has donated much of his time and efforts over the past year to help the cause.

Cancercare Committee member described the gymnasium where the children showcased their Lego creations best when she said it was like a "Lego Museum." The gym was lined with tables full of creative Lego masterpieces, built by local kids who varied in age. The atmosphere was alive with conversation and the slow meander of all age groups perusing the pieces like museum visitors looking at paintings in a gallery.

Cancercare also offers services to Spanish speaking families through people like Cristina Lima, the Director for Hispanic Outreach. Programs including face-to-face support groups are available in Bridgeport and Norwalk, among other Connecticut towns.

Among the sponsors and driving forces for Blocks of Love were , which donated much of the food, , which hosted demonstration tables, Art for Healing, Brett Berland, Builders Beyond Borders, Bill Probert, Brian Prowell, Do Something, Dunkin Donuts, Ernst & Young, , Hoyt Property Management, Jacob Rodier, John Kantz, LP MacAdams, and the many volunteers.

If you are interested in volunteering or getting involved with Cancercare, visit the group's website at www.cancercare.org or its Connecticut chapter at www.cancercarect.org. Fore more information on "Blocks of Love," visit www.cancercare.org/blocks.