Donnie Wahlberg Sends Inspirational Message To CT Cancer Patient

WEST HAVEN, CT - In the midst of her fight against cancer, a lifelong West Haven resident recently received a message of love and strength from a celebrity. According to her family's YouCaring page, Kara Peryer has been battling cancer for over a year.

As her family looks for ways to support her during this difficult time period, further encouragement came from a somewhat unexpected source.

"Kara, it's Donnie," actor and singer/songwriter Donnie Wahlberg said in a video message to Peryer. "Listen, I know what you're up to; prolonging this fight so we can stay in touch and stay friends."

The video was posted to Facebook by family member Missy Peryer, who said her family was humbled and honored for Wahlberg's sincere showing of support and love to one of his greatest fans.

"Your message could not have come at a better time," Peryer said on Facebook. "If you could of only seen Kara's face! Thank you!"

Wahlberg, who is the older brother of actor Mark Wahlberg, is best known for being one of the founding members of the pop group New Kids on the Block. The group enjoyed great success in the late 1980's and early 1990s' with a number of hits like "I'll Be Loving You (Forever)" and "Step By Step."

Wahlberg has also acted in films such as "Ransom" (1996) and "The Sixth Sense" (1999), according to IMDb, and is the star of the long-running CBS drama "Blue Bloods."

Made possible through the help of a family friend, the video features Wahlberg walking around a hospital room as he delivers his message of support to one of his biggest fans.

"Now it's time to kick this thing's ass, ok?" Wahlberg said. "I know you're going to. I love you, I'm thinking about you and I'm praying for you. Don't give up."

While reveling in this magical moment, Peryer's family has also been hard at work planning a cancer benefit for Sunday, Jan. 7 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

"Kara's Nite" will be held at the West Haven American Club (86 Chase Lane, West Haven). The cost is $40 per ticket, which includes a buffet, beer/wine/soda and a raffle ticket. There will also be live music and a DJ.

Those looking to help out Peryer further can donate to her YouCaring page. As of Thursday afternoon, the page had raised $1,580 of a $15,000 goal with the help of 23 supporters thus far.

Tickets to Kara's Nite can also be purchased here. All are encouraged to come out and share their similar messages of love and support for Peryer as she continues to bravely fight this long battle.

"It's time to win now, ok?" Wahlberg said. "I'm here for you. Feel better, have a great holiday and know that you're loved."

Image via YouCaring/ video via Facebook