Fundraiser Nets Over $3K For Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center

Tuscany Grill was filled to capacity Wednesday night with hundreds of people — inside and out — all gathering to support the festive kickoff of Middlesex Hospital's month-long Appetite For Life benefit.

One hundred percent of the evening's proceeds — more than $3,000, according to co-owner Lynne Reilly — were donated to the Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center's Center for Survivorship & Integrative Medicine.

Lynne and her sister-in-law, restaurant co-owner Brenda Reilly, hosted the kickoff, along with many family members, all who work at the restaurant, in memory of her husband Timothy, who lost his five-year battle with colorectal cancer in 2009.

"We're very pleased with the generosity of our patrons," Lynne said. She estimated more than 300 people — family, friends, Middlesex Hospital employees, community members and many others — turned out for the event which featured live music and appetizers.

Timothy's sister Brenda addressed the crowd in an emotional speech. "You are part of something that is raising money for a great cause but you are also part of something that is creative and substantial and it is heartfelt and it is definately worthy of honoring Tim."

Lynne told those gathered she draws strength from all those who turned out Wednesday.

"Cancer's affecting all of us in our worlds and sometimes it can make all us feel a little bit overwhelmed and I think participating in something like this makes us all feel stronger."

Inside, vocalist Paul Christopher played guitar and sang, while outside, the blues and R&B band West Coast Cadence — Keith Burns on guitar, Lesley Sandoval on drums and Mark Pollard on guitar and vocals — entertained diners.

The next Appetite For Life benefit is Saturday at the Winchester Cafe, Portland, from 12-6 p.m. For the full calendar of restaurants throughout Middlesex County, see http://patch.com/A-hS3W.

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