According to Carson’s Crusaders Foundation Executive Director Desiree Simmons,
“The fifth annual ‘Brighten the Night,’ Wine Tasting and Live Auction event on Thursday, September 15, helps fund events for North Texas families who are living with a child diagnosed with cancer. According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization, ‘Each year in the United States approximately 15,780 children between the ages of birth and 19 years of age are diagnosed with cancer.’ In the U.S., more children die of childhood cancer than any other disease. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
“For every child diagnosed with cancer there are parents, siblings, grandparents and other family members also dealing with this life-threatening diagnosis. It’s not uncommon for family members and caregivers to become ill themselves as a result of stress associated with caring for a child with cancer. Siblings of children with cancer often feel pushed aside, helpless, fearful and even guilty because they are healthy. Cancer is a family disease.
“The Carson’s Crusaders Foundation was formed to honor Carson Richardson, George Richardson’s grandson who died from Stage IV Hepatoblastoma, one of the rarest forms of pediatric cancer, in 2010 at the age of seven, and to help other families battling solid tumor cancers.
“The funds from ‘Brighten the Night,’ provide families with gasoline cards to help with treatment related travel expenses, educational programs and sibling events like the May 6th and 7th ‘Siblings Superstars,’ weekend at Great Wolf Lodge for 50 families served by Carson’s Crusaders.
“’Brighten the Night’ is described as “a night of glamour and elegance that will transport you back to Old Hollywood. For one night only, don your best attire and jewels, walk the red carpet, be photographed by the paparazzi, taste some remarkable wines, eat some wonderful food, and enjoy the opportunity to bid on some amazing items up for auction while supporting families fighting pediatric solid tumor cancer.”
“The event will be held at Noah’s Event Venue in Fairview from 6:30 pm until 10:00 pm. Sponsors are still needed for this event. Tickets and sponsorship information can be found at the Carson’s Crusaders website. Carson’s Crusaders”
* Photos provided by Carson's Crusaders Foundation