Neighbor News
Sunday's Fundraiser Benefits Elvira's Gift for Hope Foundation
The Foundation helps raise money and defray costs such as utilities, mortgages and groceries for families dealing with breast cancer
WOONSOCKET—Hope springs eternal when someone is affected by cancer. However, such people are often left asking more questions than having answers. One of the biggest concerns for those suffering from cancer—particularly breast cancer—is how are everyday tasks and bills going to be handled?
The answer comes in the form of Elvira’s Gift For Hope Foundation, which raises funds for families dealing with the impact of breast cancer. The Foundation helps defray costs such as utilities, mortgages, groceries and other items. Founder Elvira Protano of Woonsocket, a Stage Two breast cancer survivor herself, said she wanted to make a difference in other people’s lives that are going through the same ordeal.
“After the doctors informed me of having breast cancer, I went through a double mastectomy, several months of chemo and reconstructive surgery,” said Protano, who added that her cancer is now in remission. “I was lucky in that I work from home (as an accountant) and didn’t incur as many expenses as other families may have. I don’t know if I would have been able to keep my job if I had to work elsewhere.”
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Protano said she has spent the past two months generating money to fund her mission, which includes an event this Sunday afternoon (October 16) at Twelve Acres, 445 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, Proceeds from this event helps in giving everyone affected by breast cancer a chance to take one important issue off their hands.
“We’ve partnered with Miriam Hospital in Providence to spearhead this initiative,” said Protano “We have done other fundraisers and will be announcing more in the coming months.. Many people do not realize that when you can’t work, it can not only make your life more difficult, but for the family, relatives and others connected to that person.”
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The event will feature dinner, dancing, door prizes and more. Protano said she is looking for individuals or companies who want to make either a financial and/or in-kind donation. Some of the items already given include a two-night stay at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Connecticut, a two night stay on Black Island, autographed sports memorabilia and gift certificates, according to Protano.
Tickets are $40 per person. More details about the event and contributing to the Elvira’s Gift For Hope Foundation can be obtained by contacting Elvira Protano at (401) 787-5638 or by email at: elvirasbookkeeping@hotmail.com.
