Dancers Perform for Mesothelioma Research

Students practicing at Dance Dynamics studio performed various styles of dance in Rancho Santa Margarita, California March 7, 2009 to raise money for mesothelioma research. The $3,195 raised by the dancers was donated to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating the aggressive cancer.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. Ken Bendix, father of Dance Dynamics dancer Isabella Bendix, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2006. Since symptoms of the cancer do not frequently surface until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos occurs, mesothelioma often progresses to later stages of development, typically resulting in a poor mesothelioma prognosis for most patients.

The performance, the Bendix Benefit show, named for Bendix, took place at St. John’s Episcopal School. More than 200 people attended the performance where elementary, middle school and high school dancers performed in the St. John’s gym.

“The benefit was our way of supporting Ken and his family, while also brining awareness to our students about helping one of their own, as well as encouraging their sense of community service,” said Genevieve Garner, owner of Dance Dynamics. “Ken has a special spirit, and we admire his strength and perseverance during this difficult time in his life.”

Following the performance, Bendix addressed the audience and spoke briefly about his journey with mesothelioma. “Remember to follow your dreams and don’t forget to tell those around you how much you love them,” he stated.

Snack bar staffing and front door management was provided by The Breath of Hope Club, an organization formed by Bendix’s oldest daughter, Aria. The 23-member club is comprised of students from Santa Margarita Catholic High School and raises awareness for mesothelioma research.

Proceeds from ticket, merchandise and snack bar sales contributed to the money donated to help fund mesothelioma research. In the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation’s mission statement, the organization states they strive to “fund the highest quality and most promising meso research projects from around the world through rigorous peer-review and raise awareness of meso, and advocate that the public and private sectors partner in the effort to cure it by directing the resources needed to stop this global tragedy.”

Additional information about mesothelioma and mesothelioma research may be found through the Mesothelioma Cancer Center.
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This entry was posted on Thursday, March 26th, 2009 at 1:14 pm and is filed under California, Mesothelioma. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS feed. Responses are currently closed, but you trackback from your own site.