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“Jeanne’s Journey” held their debut fundraising event on Sunday. The organization is a new non-profit benefitting breast cancer. The group aids cancer patients with their living expenses, and provides complimentary alternative therapy options for patients undergoing treatment. Founded by Lindsey and Lauren Borden, whose mother Jeanne was cured of stage three breast cancer in 1992, but recently relapsed, the sisters hope that the organization can raise awareness of lifestyle choices and the roll it plays in preventing cancer.

“We want to provide education to patients – let them know about movement based therapies such as Heller work and pilates, nutrition counseling, and especially help with basic expenses. Many groups give aid for medical expenses, but sometimes when you can’t work especially, you can’t pay even your basic expenses, and you might buy your medication and not pay the electric bill. We want to provide for that,” said Gail Ceron, event chair.

This need was underscored when Jeanne Borden had a recurrence of breast cancer in 2009. Retired with Stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to her liver, kidneys and bones, the illness and lack of insurance wiped out her retirement savings. Now on Medicare and finishing an intense chemotherapy treatment series, the fundraiser also served provided a much needed boost. “We wanted to show mom that people care, and there is help out there,” explained Lindsey Borden, the youngest of Jeanne Borden’s two daughters.

The stellar turn out included appearances from three time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova, Laker Luke Walton, “The Bold and the Beautiful” star Katherine Kelly Lang, live music by Marc Robbilard. Also in attendance were Gold Medalist Eric Fonoimoana, and AVP stars Albert Hannemann, Ty Loomis and Austin Rester. “Iron Chef” contestant and Sashi Executive Chef Makoto Okuwa provided a menu of passed appetizers including new macrobiotic offerings and mingled with guests. Jayime Jeans local denim designer was also on hand and contributed one of her Couture collection – similar to the styles worn by Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, and the cast of the Hills. The silent auction included a huge array of items – including a team signed ball from 2009 NBA Champions, the Lakers. Hannemann’s GObeachfest trips donated one of the largest items, a Caribbean vacation as well as the champagne that greeted guests.

“We got our bracelets on, we got some good auction items, people donating money out there. Its been a great day so far,” said Luke Walton.

Sashi was temporarily transformed with pink balloons and streamers giving a festive air and Robillard’s band set up along with Vox DJ’s emceeing the event and providing music between sets. Auction tables lined the outdoor area as guest strolled sipping complimentary champagne and nibbling sushi. Information about Jeanne’s Journey, including an online benefit auction can be found at www.jeannesjourney.com

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