Worth Fighting For
Friday (April 2), 8pm, Charley’s Restaurant & Saloon, Paia
Enduring more than most could fathom, eight-year old Jacquline Wenzler-Steves, daughter of Annette and Maui firefighter Vince Steves, has, for three-years, battled Ewing’s Sarcoma—a rare, aggressive form of bone cancer. Fourteen rounds of heavy chemotherapy and eight surgeries—one to replace half of her pelvis—took place during Jacquline’s first year of treatment alone. When a tumor, pressing heavily on her nerves, began growing on her spine during the spring of 2009, she suffered a major relapse that led to even more chemotherapy, radiation and surgeries. Except for two all-too brief periods of reprieve—during which Jacquline was able to engage in therapy and re-learn how to walk, and even horseback ride—her young life has been shadowed by excruciating pain. As a cancer patient (soon survivor!) myself, I have an inkling of Jacquline’s strife (as pianist Andrew McMahon describes in his song, “Hammer and Strings,” about his own battle with leukemia, “no peace, just clicking machines”), and how such circumstances create severe financial crisis. The Steves ohana has exhausted their savings and the therapy required for Jacquline’s recovery is not covered by insurance. You can help by attending the benefit “An Evening for Jacquline,” with entertainment by The Neverminds, Let the Grass Grow and The Worrell Family Band. All donations taken at the door will benefit Jacquline, who will turn nine years old on April 16. As with the American Cancer Society, which proudly proclaims to be the “official sponsor of birthdays,” let’s all pitch in to make sure Jacqueline has many more. 4jacquline.com, 575-5432 ext. 17; Anu Yagi, MauiTime
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