Traci's Hope continues to reach others

OWEGO -- Three years after her death, the legacy of Traci Gibson's quest to help those battling breast cancer will continue at the 6th annual Traci's Hope barbecue.

The Saturday event, which raises funds to help women and men with breast cancer, always draws a large crowd, said organizer Melissa Joyce. Last year, more than 1,500 turned out to eat, listen to music, enjoy children's activities and try their chance at dozens of raffle prizes.

Like last year, the Southern Tier Antique Tractors Club will be there as well as the Wheels Roadhouse Café motorcycle rally, which might top last year's 180 riders. New this year will be Cruisin' Buddies auto enthusiasts.

All funding goes to help individuals diagnosed with breast cancer to pay for bills not covered by insurance, said Gibson's father, Gordy Shiner. Whether it's making a mortgage payment, covering a utility bill or providing gift cards for groceries, the non-profit seeks to help out wherever needed, he said.

Since most individuals with breast cancer are unable to work, Shiner said, bills can pile up and leave families in financial turmoil.

"They're being threatened to lose things they've worked for all of their life," he said.

Gibson got the idea when friends and family helped during her battle with the disease that eventually took her life, Joyce said. Whether it was babysitting her three boys or helping fill up her gas tank, each act of kindness was remembered.

"When Traci was going through cancer treatment, that was the biggest help to her," Joyce said.

Unlike some organizations, Shiner said, the funds raised by Traci's Hope goes directly toward local people with breast cancer.

"Every nickel we get here Saturday will stay right here in Broome and Tioga counties," he said.

By Debbie Swartz, Staff Writer