Local Youth Help Organize Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon

Some of Trinity Lutheran Church's youngest members are orchestrating the church’s first Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon, which will raise funds for cancer research among other things.

According to youth director Ben Lander, the idea behind the luncheon was to hold a multi-outreach event that would benefit more than just one cause.

Tickets for the luncheon are $12, and the proceeds will be split between breast cancer research funding, Trinity's food closet ministry and Trinity's Youth Week of Missions in 2014.  

One of the youth helping to organize the event is 12-year-old Casey Jenkins, who is a cancer survivor himself.

When Casey was 9 he developed headaches and back pain. When he went to the doctor he found out there was a tumor in his spine. Casey went through a year of chemo and his been in remission for a little more than two years now.

Despite being in remission, Casey said he knows nothing is no guarantee until they find a cure, which is why he often donates his time fundraising for cancer research. 

“I like to give back,” Casey said. “I want to raise $100,000 for research.”

Previously, Casey has helped organize a bingo and two bull roasts; the luncheon is his next endeavor.

Lander said the event will feature food and raffles for some Longaberger and Pampered Chef merchandise, all with the "Wings of Hope" theme to help raise breast cancer awareness.

The keynote speaker at the luncheon will be Dr. Jeff Alexander, a member of Trinity and a doctor of internal medicine in Towson. He and his wife are both cancer survivors.  

“This event is not a gender specific event, or even a cancer specific event,” Lander said. “It is for all people who wish to support the cause and show solidarity for those friends, family and loved ones they know that have been affected by this pandemic. Together we can make steps forward to provide Wings of Hope to an otherwise sobering condition.” 

For more information on the luncheon, or to purchase tickets visit the church’s website.