Dear Editor:
On September 30 a benefit was held for my sister, Karen, who is suffering from cancer and currently undergoing intensive chemotherapy. She has been gravely ill for the past five months and unable to work for much longer than that. Needless to say, she and her two children have been struggling physically, emotionally and financially during this traumatic period. Her physical and emotional conditions have been left in her doctor’s and God’s hands. However, on Saturday night, the kind citizens of our wonderful community rallied together to help alleviate some of Karen’s monetary problems. To say that this benefit was a huge success would be an understatement. The outpouring of contributions, gifts and emotional support she received this evening will never be forgotten.
On behalf of Karen, myself and my entire family, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who took the time to open your hearts and your wallets to make this event such a success. Your generosity and concern will, I’m sure, have more than a positive effect on her physical and emotional state. It is impossible for me to thank each of you individually, the list is just too long. Special mention, however, must go to the Weehawken Elks, who donated their hall, the local businesses for their donations of food, dinners and prizes. All of our friends, relatives and neighbors who cooked their favorite meals and those who donated gifts to be auctioned off are to be congratulated. The Bachelorettes and Bachelors, who so graciously allowed themselves to be auctioned off were an added source of entertainment as were the bands and the DJ who provided the great music.
Thanks also to Mayor Richard Turner and our Town Council for the “Dunk Tank” proceeds collected at our annual Weehawken Day celebration, the North Hudson Fire Officers Assn., The North Hudson Firefighters Assn., The Weehawken PBA for their generous contributions, and the many individuals who made private donations.
On a more personal note, I want to thank my husband, “my rock,” Dave Flood for the enormous amount of time and effort he put into this project to help make it work and for putting up with me during this very emotional time.
Finally, and most importantly, we give our ultimate thanks to Joe Rovito. He was the brains and the catalyst behind this affair. Without this wonderful man, none of it would have been possible. We consider it an honor to have a friend like him. May God Bless Him and each and every one of you. Thank you all again.
Elaine Flood