Rock the Block returns to raise funds and 'Kick Cancer'
By Courtney Bernard, LMH Endowment Association
LMH Endowment’s annual Rock the Block – Kick Cancer fundraiser is back to benefit LMH Oncology and celebrate our community’s cancer survivors.
You’re invited to join us this Friday for the event that will feature dazzling decor, live DJ set, food, drinks, costumes and theme baskets galore.
The event takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Dale Willey Automotive, 2840 Iowa St. in Lawrence. The evening is highlighted by the Rock Star Ceremony, which honors Lawrence-area cancer fighters, survivors and their caregivers.
“We are always amazed by the support from this community for our hospital,” said Dr. Mike Thompson. Dr. Thompson, a pathologist at LMH Health, and his wife, Cheri, are co-chairing the event. “Rock the Block has continued to be a success, thanks to the many volunteers and generous guests. As always, the funds raised at this event stay local and help LMH Health provide outstanding cancer treatment and care.”
Every year, proceeds from Rock the Block – Kick Cancer fund needs within LMH Health oncology programs. In 2017, the event raised $72,000 and helped purchase new vital signs towers in oncology patient rooms. Funds also were used to provide free mammogram vouchers at the LMH Breast Center for people who cannot afford them.
LMH Endowment Association, a 501 (c) (3), leverages more than $13 million in philanthropic assets to provide average annual donor support of more than $1.8 million to LMH Health. The organization is governed by a board of directors, who guide programs to grow investments in patient care, community education, charitable care, wellness and more. In January, the organization will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a new name: LMH Health Foundation.
“We are honored that the patients have faith in our expertise in helping them decide the best treatment for their cancer,” Dr. Thompson said. “This is an evening to celebrate the cancer survivor and caregiver journey through cancer treatment.”
The proceeds from Friday’s Rock the Block will:
- Support LMH Oncology and Catch a Break, LMH Endowment’s fund to assist with the costs of cancer survivorship, helping ensure immediate and long-term support for the department and survivors in need.
- Support cancer prevention by providing cancer screening exams for patients who might not otherwise be able to afford it.
“The fight against cancer is best fought when the community comes together to champion our patients and survivors,” said Dr. Jodie Barr, an LMH Health oncologist. “These funds will ensure cancer patients receive the best care possible, right here in Lawrence.”
Tecia Kite, a breast cancer survivor who was successfully treated at LMH Health during the past year, will tell her story at the event.
“It was the personal touch during my treatment that made me love my doctor and nurses at LMH Health,” Kite said. “Their caring and loving approach were exactly what I needed. I’m excited to support my fellow survivors and talk about my journey during the Rock the Block event.”
Dance the night away and enter to win dozens of elaborately themed baskets – including KU basketball tickets, Chiefs gear, travel packages and tasty treats – all donated by LMH Health departments and community members. Each chance to enter to win a basket is just $1, and tickets can be pre-ordered at www.lmhendowment.org/rocktheblock.
This year’s event also will feature special live auction items and an opportunity to purchase “Buy it Now” gift cards from Catch a Break. These gift cards will help cancer patients and survivors with items such as bills, medication, food or clothing.
Thanks to generous donors, there is no cost for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers to attend. Individual tickets are $45 for community members. Tables of eight may be purchased for $500, allowing reserved seating and early entry to the event, at 5 p.m.
“I would like to thank the LMH Endowment staff and all of the people who donate time and money to the endowment to support the care of patients at this hospital,” Dr. Thompson said.
“Several companies are sponsoring the event, including Meritrust, Radiologic Professional Services, Lawrence Clinical Laboratory, McCown Gordon Construction and Pulse Design Group.”
For more information and to register for the event, visit www.lmhendowment.org/rocktheblock. Tickets also may be purchased at the door. This event is 21-and-up. Costumes are encouraged, or come in jeans. If you have questions, please contact Tiffany Hall at tiffany.hall@lmh.org.
Courtney Bernard is a development coordinator for LMH Endowment Association. She can be reached at Courtney.Bernard@lmh.org.
