Jason Teakle
BRANT NEWS

Debbie Clayton’s recent battles against cancer brought her out to support the Stedman Community Hospice over the weekend.

“I came out to support the cause,” Clayton said. “I survived melanoma earlier this year and now I’m fighting breast cancer.”

About 300 people attended the third annual Hearts For Hospice fundraiser in support of the Stedman Community Hospice at Inspirational Hearts on Charing Cross Street on Sunday afternoon.

Organizer Judy Porter said she received much support from the community in planning the event.

“This year, I have been blown away by how the community has pulled together to help with this,” Porter said. “I did an inspirational talk to the hospice’s day program about three years ago and it was such a calming place.

“I didn’t realize how wonderful of a place it is. The more we fundraise, the more beds and services we can provide for people. The hospice is my charity of choice.”

This year’s Hearts for Hospice raised $1,000 for the Stedman Community Hospice, and over three years, the fundraiser has raised a total of $2,500.

“There is lots of support available at the hospice for families of people with terminal illness,” Porter said.

The event included a Zumba class led by Joan Minnery and Kelly Sloat of Art in Motion Dance, vendors and performances from local musicians.

“Everyone has been affected by cancer,” Sloat said. “We have had some of our (dance) students use the services available at the hospice. It is important to support the hospice and raise awareness of it in the community.”