Bear Necessities' celebrates 30th anniversary at Bear Tie Ball

Once upon a time, in the hopefully not-to-distant future, the world will find a cure for pediatric cancer. But until then, we are so grateful for the nonprofits that are there to support these kids and their families like Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Founded in 1992 by Kathleen Casey following the loss of her son Barrett “Bear” Krupa, BNPCF strives to bring hope and joy to kids with cancer, as well as fund cutting-edge research to end this disease that is the top cause of death for children and teens (according to cancer.net).

To further this mission, the organization hosted a grand gala, the Bear Tie Ball co-chaired by Donna Rotunno and Kirk Williams, at Union Station recently. Attracting 300 guests, the fundraiser also celebrated the organization’s 30^th anniversary.

Emcee Sylvia Perez (Fox-32 anchor) welcomed the crowd and spoke about the nonprofit’s history, reach and fundraising efforts. Since its inception in 1994, Bear Necessities has raised over $13.5 million for research and support services at its Bear Tie Ball.

BN founders Kathleen Casey and Courtney Krupa spoke about the inspiration for Bear Necessities - Casey’s late son, “Bear, “ who passed away at age 8 after being diagnosed with Wilms tumor, a cancer of the kidney that was discovered when he was 3. While fighting for his life, Bear’s main focus was trying to figure out ways to make life better for kids like him.

The William J. Casey Hope Awards were presented to longtime supporters Donna and Tom Itrich and Amanda Puck. (Puck also won the adorable mini-Australian Labradoodle as a live auction prize for $4500.)    

Russ and Tracy Scurto (BN board members) won a colorful painting by Bear Ambassador Walker for $4000. Walker is 9 years old and in treatment for lymphoma. For his Bear Hug earlier this year, BN facilitated an art show of his work where he donated a portion of the proceeds back to BN.  

The event raised $547,000 with proceeds benefiting BN’s Bear Hugs program, family support services, counseling, scholarships, and pediatric cancer research. (bearnecessities.org) (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Candid Candace Jordan)

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