Holiday party offers reprieve from cancer

For one evening earlier this month, childhood cancer patients and families had a chance to enjoy the holidays without having to think about cancer. The Keaton Raphael Memorial hosted 180 guests from Placer and Sacramento counties during the annual Childhood Cancer Family Holiday Party Dec. 8 at Morgan Creek Golf Course in Roseville. The families enjoyed dinner, crafts and activities, and a surprise visit from Santa Claus. "We know how stressful it is to juggle family life when your child is battling cancer, especially during the holidays," said CEO Robyn Raphael, in a news release. "Our holiday party is a time where families can gather together, relax for two hours and not to think about how childhood cancer has invaded their lives."Del Campo High school teacher Jay Lottes and his students provided more than 100 presents for every child with cancer and their siblings.Keaton Raphael Memorial was established in 1998 to provide emotional, educational and financial assistance to children with cancer and their families, while increasing awareness and funding research toward a cure.~ Sena Christian