11/08/09: 1950’s ‘Catwalk for Charity’ Rebels with a Cause Raise Funds for Children Fighting Cancer

BY NICKI MAYO
A “Fabulous 50’s Party” filled with Daddy-o’s, Sock Hop girls and Hep Cat costumes took over Buffalo’s Town Ballroom.
“We’re loving it!” said Rochester’s Mark Gregory dressed like Fonzi from “Happy Days.” We dress like this all the time anyway, why should be change it,” he added.
The Steadfast Foundation hosted the “Happy Days” inspired event in hopes of bringing happier days to youths fighting cancer.
“They should not have to worry about what tomorrow brings, and the struggle that are ahead of them,” said Arcade’s Stacey Lund dressed head to toe Audrey Hepburn from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” “They should just be able to be children,” Lund added.
The Steadfast Foundation started when Sabres Goalie Ryan Miller’s cousin Matt Schoals was diagnosed with acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. As the 16 year old fought for his life, Miller says the family fought to maintain a normal life for Matt and other young cancer patients.
“What kind of environment can we create to give these kids the best chance to battle as hard as they can and feel like they have a ton of support around them?” said Miller. He says a lot of emphasis is placed on the medical side of treatment. But he adds the “psychosocial” impact is just as important.
“Getting back to school, which can be tough when they are always in the hospital and always in treatment they are missing out on a lot of that,” said Miller.
This is the fourth year for the event that benefits Roswell Park programs for kids. Buffalo Sabres and various athletes teamed up for the “Rebel with a Cause” charity auction. From autographed jerseys to goalie mask these “Rebels with a Cause” say want to raise money to help young Cancer patients get back to a sense of normalcy. In some case, that can be just as simple as heading back to class.
“Most kids would love a day off from school, but these kids look forward to going to school. It’s a big goal for them to get back into classes and be around their friends,” smiled Miller.