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Community Corner

Prosthetic Fundraiser for Melissa Panciera

During the June 4th & 5th American Cancer Society Relay for Life at Eastern Connecticut State University money raised through food and beverage sales at the concession stand will benefit both the American Cancer Society and the Prosthetic Fund for Melissa Panciera. Three years ago, Panciera was diagnosed with Synovial Cell Sarcoma, a form of cancer that affects soft tissue areas such as the hands. In February, the cancer returned necessitating the amputation of her left hand. Her insurance will only contribute $2500 towards the cost of a prosthetic which start in price at $17,000. Panciera is a 29-year old native of Stafford Springs, and a 2003 graduate of Eastern Connecticut State University. She is a licensed clinical social worker at the Mansfield office for Community Health Resources, a local non-profit aimed at helping children, adults and families who struggle with mental health and substance abuse issues. Panciera works for the Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Services unit assisting children in crisis on a daily basis. Johnny’s Angels, a relay team in memory of John R. White (1963-1996), has volunteered to run the concession stand. Johnny’s Angels has participated in the Relay for Life for 13 years and has raised an estimated $30,000 for cancer research. 50% of the concession stand money will go directly to the American Cancer Society and 50% will go to the Prosthetic Fund for Melissa Panciera. If you would like to donate directly to the Prosthetic Fund for Melissa Panciera, please make checks payable to Melissa Panciera Donation Account and mail them to:

The Prosthetic Fund for Melissa Panciera
Rockville Bank
6 Fieldstone Commons
Tolland, CT, 06084

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