Keaton Raphael Memorial Celebrates Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with Uplifting Reports of Hope, Strength and Healing

Annual Kaleidoscope Gala achieves record levels for sponsorships and attendance, and the next day, Guest of Honor, 6-Year Old Abby Martin-Gutierrez demonstrated new strength enabling her return to school

Sacramento, CA (September 22, 2015)– In the midst of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Keaton Raphael Memorial (KRM) today announced inspiring news associated with its recent successful Kaleidoscope Gala. This year’s benefit event to assist northern California children and their families battling cancer achieved new benchmark results in the three categories of funds raised, sponsorships and attendance. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

A defining highlight of the evening was the touching interaction on stage between KCRA Channel 3’s Eileen Javora, the Master of Ceremonies, and a very special guest, Abby Martin-Gutierrez, a “KRM Kiddo.” In her courageous battle over the past nine months with Osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, and the debilitating side effects of treatment, 6-year old Abby had required a nasogastric (NG) tube for necessary nutrition.

Remarkably, the day immediately following the Gala, Abby requested that her NG tube be removed, as she found her appetite returning. This has allowed Abby to begin transitioning back into attending school full time. She was even able to enjoy her birthday cake at her 6th birthday party.

Speaking of the Gala and Abby’s exchanges with Ms. Javora, her mother, Maricsa said: “Abby felt like a star that day! KRM has been a blessing on this journey, and we are very thankful for the hard work that you do.” Each year, KRM provides direct assistance to approximately 500 families with children battling cancer. All proceeds from the annual Kaleidoscope Gala go directly to this mission of providing hope, strength and healing to these children and their families. Abby’s mom added, “It is incredible how much she is eating now– we are actually having to stop her at times from eating too much!”

Keaton Raphael Memorial, a 501(c)3 nonprofit was established in 1998 in memory of 5-year old Keaton and his courageous nine-month battle with Neuroblastoma. “Abby’s character is an inspirational example of the colorful strength and courage that define these brave children,” said Teresa Hofhenke, CEO of Keaton Raphael Memorial. “We are grateful to our
sponsors and supporters whose dedication and generosity make such a difference in the lives of these children and their families, as they cope with the challenges of cancer.”

CONTACT: Kirk Taber, 916.730.7708

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