Photos: Friends, Family, And Country Stars Show the Love for Danielle Harrison-Meraz

(Check out the photo gallery below).

NORTH FORK, NY-They came from down the block and miles away, all drawn to the Greenport Firehouse Sunday by their love for Danielle Harrison-Meraz, a local woman who’s touched their lives with her huge heart, infinite friendship, and beautiful spirit.

A fundraiser was held to help Harrison-Meraz, who is battling cancer of the brain, lungs, and spleen. For weeks, the North Fork community has worked furiously to organize the event, opening hearts in an unprecedented outpouring of generosity. More than 300 Chinese auction gifts were donated, as well as a sea of food, paper goods from Kait’s Angels, and the North Fork Roasting Co. onhand for coffee.

Young and old, lifetime friend or country star, all in attendance shared their love for Harrison-Meraz.

Country star Lisa Matassa said even though she’s been songwriting in Nashville, she made sure to clear her entire schedule to be with her friend on Sunday. “I love her to pieces,” she said. ”She’s a beautiful woman, inside and out. And Melvin is her rock. In my heart, I really feel God is going to bless her.”

Romeo’s Dream and Yankee Rebel had the crowd dancing for hours.

Later in the day, Matassa sang a brand-new song for Harrison-Meraz, “Save Me From Myself.” She also sang a rousing rendition of “Proud Mary”; the crowd was line dancing and clapping.

And, in a heartfelt moment, Matassa presented Harrison-Meraz, a huge country fan, with a personally recorded message from the Oak Ridge Boys, who urged her to keep fighting.

Resident Denis Noncarrow said the event showcased the compassion and caring of the North Fork community when one of their own is in need. “We are blessed to be able to live here.”

Rev. James Hubbard, Melvin’s father, spoke, and Vinny Tirelli, who organized the fundraiser with his wife Kristin and a sea of volunteers, thanked the many who’d turned out to lift Harrison-Meraz with their love.

“We’re all here for you, babe,” he said.