Terminate the Tumor: Save Colin

Normally I would do my best Arnold voice and say 'It's not a toom-ah!" however this is actually a very serious event.

Terminate the Tumor: Save Colin is a benefit music show for Richmonder Colin Messick to help him battle brain cancer. More info can be found at terminatethetumor.com including this heartfelt letter written by his girlfriend:

Hello Richmond neighbor, 10/12/09

Cancer is something that we hear about constantly. But until it sneaks up from behind you and takes over your world, it’s hard to think anything but ‘’that could never happen to me.” And that is most certainly what you think when you are a healthy, active 24 year old man loving his family, friends and life in Richmond. The harsh, unstoppable reality of brain cancer poured down on Colin Messick just two short months ago and his thoughts of culinary school, bicycle building, hiking, marriage, children and a home in the fan were washed away along with it.

At least at first…

Throughout the last two months since Colin, my boyfriend, was diagnosed with a stage four brain tumor, he has gone from desolate and defeated, to brave and empowered. He refuses to be weighed down by his new reality and fights harder and harder every day. His positive attitude during this never ceases to amaze me.

As an average young couple living in Richmond, our finances used to go towards clothing, rent, date night at Sticky Rice or Black Sheep, and PBR. As an average young couple dealing with a devastating disease, our finances now go towards co pays, herbal supplements, organic foods, fresh vegetables, and gas for hospital trips. Though he is lucky enough to have insurance and a very supportive workplace, we’ve discovered those costs add up quickly.

So on November 15th at Gallery 5, I’m hosting a benefit for Colin, not only raise money for him, but to raise awareness around amongst our peers around the city. I’m collecting donations from local businesses for the event that will be raffled off at the end of the event via raffle tickets sold throughout the evening. Any donation, large or small, will be happily accepted. We’ve received everything from one of a kind art work to gift cards and homemade cupcakes. A friend of mine jokingly offered to auction off a date with her, but she should worry that I may take her seriously!

Even if you aren’t in a position to donate this time, I appreciate you taking the time to read our story and hear our voice. It’s important to take advantage of our small, cozy city and treat the community as a family. That’s how we feel by living here, and I can’t express the level of support we’ve seen so far.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me about any questions you may have. I’ll accept any and all help I can with this event!

Spread the word, stay healthy, and I hope to see you all on the 15th of November!

Christine Haines
3314 Monument Ave
804.334.8568
Christine.haines123@gmail.com

The event will be at 7pm at Gallery 5 and features musical performances by The Hotdamns, Jonathan Vassar and the Speckled Bird and In Circles. If you can, go and support this great cause and hear some damn good music too.