Hannah Deal, 4 years old, is in a fight for her life against an inoperable brain stem tumor, called a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. For many months, Hannah's days have been crammed with medical tests, analysis, steroids, chemotherapy and a new, hopeful radiation treatment called the Gamma Knife. These heroic measures are working together to prolong Hannah's life. Of course, this difficult situation is putting a strain on the Deal family's finances.
But soon, Hannah and her family will put those worries aside to dance the night away. The community is invited to join Hannah and her family during a fundraising benefit scheduled for Saturday, March 31, from 6 to 10 p.m. The event will be packed with dinner, dancing, children's activities and a silent auction at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church located at 10888 126th Ave. in Largo.
"This fundraiser will be great for the whole family," said Lisa Deal, Hannah's mom. "It will be a night to remember. We are so very thankful for the community's support." Lisa added that the evening would be casual and relaxed.
Tickets for the fundraising benefit are on sale now at $15 per person or $25 for two attendees. Groups of five may purchase a ticket for $45, with $5 for each additional person. Please note that tickets must be purchased by Tuesday, March 27, for catering confirmations.
Da Sesto's will provide food with an Italian flair, and local bakeries will donate desserts. A disc jockey will keep the music flowing and attendees' feet dancing. Children will have their own special area along with prize drawings designed just for them.
A silent auction will be offered for adults to enjoy. Items include several vacation packages and gift cards from restaurants and businesses. Merchandise will be auctioned like oil lamps, jewelry, quilts and more. Even a parasailing package will be on the block for those more adventurous types.
For more information about the benefit or to purchase tickets, please call Lisa Deal, Hannah's mother, at (727) 394-9414 or Cindy Deal, her grandmother, at (727) 397-9859. To learn more, checkout www.hopeforhannah.org.
