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Donation fund set up for USU staff member with cancer
By Tara Bench
The Cache Valley and University communities have raised One third of the money for a $93,000 stem cell rescue procedure.
Susan Grey, a graphics specialist in the Space Dynamics Laboratory, has friends and colleagues who have organized a medical trust in her name. Money is being donated to Grey to cover the expenses of a stem cell rescue procedure that will put her ovarian cancer into prolonged remission and give her a chance for survival.
At age 47 Grey has had treatment for her ovarian cancer, but insurance has denied coverage for the special procedure, similar to a bone marrow transplant.
The Susan Grey Medical Trust Committee has planned a fine art and antique auction benefit to involve others that would like to help Grey. The auction held on Jan. 23, 6:30 p.m., at the Logan Golf and Country Club will consist of 300 different items under a variety of categories.
Susan Morgan, one of the committee members said the Greystone Gallery and the USU art committee provided a list of name of artists and collectors who would be willing to donate their work. Artists were generous, donating many kinds of paintings, sculpture, ceramic pieces, antiques and services. Among the antiques are a beautiful high chair, a pine desk and a tiny microscope.
The services range from dinners in your home to massages and cooking lessons. Tim and Tammy Vitale who are faculty at USU will prepare the Italian dinner auctioned. There are Pakistan, Indian and Liberal Gourmet dinners to choose from as well. Grace Harvell makes the desserts at the Grapevine Restaurant, and is auctioning herself to do cooking lessons for a group.
Morgan said Grey is undergoing treatment now is Salt Lake and is doing well considering what is happening to her. She said Grey went in on Jan. 11, and will be in the hospital for three weeks. The treatment will knock out her immune system so Grey will stay in Salt Lake for a month after treatment and is not to be in public places for another six months.
Grey is a private person, Morgan said, but she realized there would be a lot of debt incurred because of the procedure, so she consented to the auction. Morgan said Grey is appreciative of the attention and thoughts from the community, and wouldn't have asked for it in other circumstances.
Donations can also be made to the trust fund at USU Credit Union, and if there are questions contact Peg Cashell (797-4365) or Susan Morgan (797-2176).
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