Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Beth Faughnan attended Bay’s Big Bash, the Ninth Annual Celebration of Life Fundraiser to raise awareness for the Cancer Center for Kids at Winthrop University Hospital. The event was held at Centre Island Beach in Bayville on July 2.
Alice and Michael Ryan of Bayville said, “Twelve years ago out son Bailey Ryan was diagnosed with leukemia. It was without a doubt one of the worst days of our lives. Our lifeline throughout his treatment and aftercare has been the Cancer Center for Kids at Winthrop University Hospital. Through their incredible compassion, knowledge and caring, our son is now a happy and healthy 14-year-old and for this we will be forever in their debt.
“When Bailey was ending his treatment, we decided to celebrate. As we invited our friends and family, they asked what they could get Bay. Bay had already received the greatest gift possible. He was in remission and his future looked bright.”
That was when the Ryans decided to suggest donations to the Cancer Center for Kids. They said, “Not only did our friends think this was a great idea, they joined us in trying to help the Cancer Center for Kids – and a tradition had been born.”
Over the past eight years they have had corporate sponsors including Sarah and Emily Hughes and comedian Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling; Mr. Met, the former NY Knick; John Starks, musician; Edwin McCain; and our incredible group of volunteers, over $400,000 has been raised.”
The Bay’s Bash funds go directly to the families of the afflicted kids and have made a tremendous difference in their struggle to cope with an unimaginable situation.
The event began at 4 p.m. at Centre Island Beach. The event included a Kayak-a-thon, musical entertainment by Racket, Tommy Gunn Band, and 6-Guns; celebrity guest Jackie “The Jokeman” Martling attended; there were children’s games and activities and raffles; the day culminated in a fabulous Bay Fireworks display on the Sound which made the day unique. It was truly an unforgettable day benefiting a noble cause.
