Celebrating solutions for cancer

When Laguna Beach friends Lisa Early and Tracy Dean were both 43 years old, a breast cancer diagnosis threatened to turn their lives upside down.

After surviving their battles and empathizing with other women who had stories like theirs, the two set out to raise as much money as possible for Breast Cancer Solutions, a support group assisting patients when income and resources aren’t enough to cover treatment.

After undergoing separate treatment paths to become cancer-free this year, Early and Dean wanted to say thanks to the overwhelming support of their community for them and the nonprofit Breast Cancer Solutions.

And what better way than hosting an evening titled “Life is Beautiful” on a warm October night in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Attendees dressed in cocktail attire gathered at Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art on Saturday night to listen to live music provided by Tightrope Entertainment, pore through silent auction items and, more importantly, spent time with friends all in the name of giving back to Orange County breast cancer patients.

Early, styled in a hot-pink dress to signify the pink ribbon, the international symbol of breast cancer awareness, thanked supporters.

“You look beautiful,” a guest told her before reaching for a hug.

Early recalled how she learned of Breast Cancer Solutions last year.

She remembered sitting in her doctor’s office with her brother, who had flown in from St. Louis to be with her as she got the diagnosis. She would have six months of chemotherapy.

While Early tried to process the news, another thought came to mind.

“I just sat there sickened, thinking, ‘How am I going to pay for this?’” Early said.

Her doctor gave her a packet of information about organizations that were known to help those in need. Early went home and called Breast Cancer Solutions. After arranging an interview, the organization, which has helped more than 3,200 women since its founding in 1998, ensured financial support for Early in the form of rent payments and gas cards.

Though employed as a marketing development manager with Coca-Cola, Early, who is single, faced having to take time off work and cover added expenses. She just needed a helping hand.

The organization provides support for individuals who are going through active breast cancer treatment, meaning the patient has an upcoming surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation for primary breast cancer.

“We didn’t want [Early] to choose between getting well or going back to work,” said Heather Gilbert, board chairwoman of Breast Cancer Solutions.

She in turn appreciates Early and Dean’s efforts.

“This is the first client who has hosted a fundraiser to give back,” Gilbert said.

As guests grooved to the sounds of rockabilly by Moonshine Duo, others sampled sweets from Sweet Louie desserts and catering at a table set up by owner Shannon Guinn.

Guinn, who just went through breast cancer treatment, said she was honored to be part of the evening’s festivities.

“It’s amazing they are raising money to give back to help people,” Guinn said.

Next to the display of cookies and chocolate was a stand selling Dean’s pure virgin coconut oil from her skin care line. The oil is free of chemicals and additives and contains vitamins and protective antioxidants. Proceeds from sales would go to Breast Cancer Solutions, she said.

Early and Dean’s mission to help raise money for financial assistance to breast cancer patients comes at a crucial time. According to the American Cancer Society, about 232,570 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women were reported in 2014.

“I’m so grateful for their help,” Early said. “They lifted the weight off my shoulders.”