This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Shawn Myers about the upcoming Puck Cancer Festival, benefiting local cancer patients through the Medical Oncology Associates Prescription Assistance Fund.
Residence: Forty Fort
Professional backgrounds: Holds a master’s degree in business administration and works in software engineering at Apple
Title: Co-founder of Puck Cancer with his wife, Lauren
Q: How many years has this fundraiser been a tradition?
A: Since 2012.
Q: What is included with admission?
A: Admission includes food, non-alcoholic drinks and live entertainment. At the event there will be a foot hockey tournament, kids’ games, an inflatable obstacle course, basket raffles, 50/50, instant bingo and much more. This event is very kid-friendly.
Q: What else will be on hand for entertainment?
A: There also will be basket raffles, Susquehanna Brewing Co. beer for those who are 21 and older for purchase, an inflatable obstacle course for kids, face painter, cornhole tournament, basket raffle with nearly 100 items and more. Entertainment includes Powder Keg Culture, noon; Sugar Ray, 1:15 p.m.; Tori V & The Karma, 3:15; and Crazy Chester, 4:15.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: Dr. David Greenwald and Dr. Bruce Saidman of Medical Oncology Associates have established the Medical Oncology Associates Prescription Assistance Fund to help their cancer patients pay for various out-of-pocket medical expenses. The MOA Rx Fund helps cover prescription co-pays, travel expenses when patients are unable to access their own transportation, medical supplies and, on a few occasions, it has even provided groceries for patients who just simply could not afford it. For questions or concerns, call the office at 570-288-7231.
Q: Why is community support so important to your cause?
A: Every person that attends helps us raise money for our cause. We love the community support from local businesses where we are given donations for a basket; sponsoring an area such as cornhole, tents, etc.; and of course the support of folks spreading the word of the event.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.
