Inspired by the death of my childhood friend, Susie Buxman, I created a mixed media collage piece in her memory – a horse named “Running Free.” Susie had been in the hospital for only three days before her death. Tests revealed her body was consumed with cancer. She told no one she had cancer. I was so moved by her solitary struggles that I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others who are affected by cancer. I wanted them to know that someone cared. Thus began the nonprofit organization, Running Free From Cancer, with a mission to raise funds and public awareness to help support cancer survivors and their families.

In February 2012, over 30 artists and 30 businesses joined me for the first fundraiser. We raised over $3,000 for the Bozeman Deaconess Cancer Center Patient Fund. In 2013, we partnered with Cancer Support Community and raised $1,300. Bolstered by the dedication of the local artists and support of the community, we have continued this partnership. Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will be donated to Cancer Support Community, which works to ensure all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community.  

Cancer Support Community is celebrating their 10 Year Anniversary. During this time, they have evolved from a small, start-up organization primarily offering breast cancer support to a flourishing non-profit organization offering as many as 50 programs per month. They say, “There is Strength in Numbers,” and Cancer Support Community has proven this as they collectively pool resources to provide hope in place of fear. All programs are offered free of charge to allow a clear road to empowerment for youth and adults affected by cancer. Learn more at www.cancersupportmontana.org.

Sola Café is hosting the 2014 Third Annual Running Free From Cancer fundraiser, an art show to benefit cancer survivors and their families. Artwork is on display and available for purchase through July 23. Featured artists offering their original art for silent auction bidding include Dana Aaberg, Terry Hall, Whitney Hall, Justine Heisel, DG House, Rebecca Huff, Larry Hughes, Marsha Karle, Wendy Marquis, Deborah McKenna, Bryon Rogers, Peggy Ryan, Anita Saunders and Marci Surratt. In addition, raffle tickets are for sale for a chance to win my original featured piece, “Take Courage.” The closing reception and wine tasting event will be Wednesday, July 23, from 6 to 8 pm at Sola Café, 290 West Kagy. The reception is free and open to anyone to attend. Wine tasting tickets are available for sale for those who choose to participate in the wine tasting event. Silent auction bidding will close and the raffle ticket drawing will be held for the original “Take Courage.”

Raffle Tickets and Wine Tasting Tickets may be purchased at the July 23 reception or in advance at Sola Café, Cancer Support Community, Four Winds Gallery, Old Main Gallery, Kindred Spirits Gallery (Sheridan MT) and Wendy Marquis Art Studio (Belgrade).

This year’s fundraiser is made possible by the gracious donations and sponsorships of Allegra, Crowley Fleck, Don Heyden, Guest Family Chiropractic, Heart of Montana Realty, Optimist Club of Bozeman, and Sola Café.
Our efforts are only possible because of your support. Together we can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by cancer.

This is how you can make a difference -- Support the Running Free From Cancer Fundraiser. Invite the beauty of art into your life while simultaneously supporting those with cancer in your community. Stop by Sola Café today and buy a greeting card for $4, a raffle ticket for $5, a wine tasting ticket for $35, or an original painting with beginning bidding prices ranging from at $90 to $1000. You can also make a tax-deductible donation to Cancer Support Community. Mark your calendar to attend and participate in an event that could possibly change the world for just one person with cancer - the Third Annual Running Free From Cancer Fundraiser Closing Reception/Wine Tasting on Wednesday, July 23 from 6-8 pm at Sola Café, 290 West Kagy.

My friend Susie told no one she was sick, a choice I respect, but I hope you will not have to make that same choice. If your life is touched by cancer – don’t hesitate - call Becky at Cancer Support Community at 582-1600 or becky@cancersupportmontana.org    

Shirley Robinett graduated from MSU with a BFA in graphic design. She lives in Bozeman with her husband and is surrounded by her children, grandchildren and other family members. Robinett is known for her unique mixed media collages she creates with cut pieces of paper and other found materials. You may find her art on facebook at Paper Rosez Studio, and on her website at www.paperrosez.com. For more information about Running Free From Cancer Fundraiser contact Shirley Robinett at 406-579-6975 or shirley@paperrosez.com. Follow us on Facebook at Running Free From Cancer.