Cancer Survivor 'Overwhelmed' by Art Fundraiser

Fundraiser for a Cause

Gulfport Elementary third grade teacher and cancer survivor Beth Myers says she was "overwhelmed" by the students', teachers' and the community's support during the art fundraiser on Friday.

"I can't believe how much they put into this," Myers said while glancing around the booths on Beach Boulevard.

Hundreds of various artwork, home decorations, magnets, beadwork, bird houses, t-shirts and more were for sale with all the proceeds going towards Myers' health expenses.

43-year-old Beth Myers was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in October and has spent time away from the classroom for chemotherapy treatments at the Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy in Arkansas.

About 4 to 6 weeks ago her students, third-graders at Gulfport Elementary, came up with the idea to create and sell art to help raise money for Mrs. Myers.

9-year-old student Jailah Williams says she made a poster and a dog bowl with glitter on it to help raise money for her teacher.

"I miss her," Williams said.

When she first heard that Mrs. Myers was sick, "I sent her chocolates," Williams said.

While dozens of people streamed past the tables and crowded around the artwork, Williams said she was happy to see them shopping.

"I think it's good that they wanna help somebody that has cancer," she said.

Williams' aunt LaKeisha Isaac bought a handmade beaded cross to hang on a wall at home, "It was the best $20 I've ever spent. It's a wonderful cause and I'm glad so many people are shopping and stopping."

Successful Event & Special Thanks

Gulfport Elementary Teacher and Organizer Betsy Kinsley says they raised $3,200.

"This is fantastic," Kinsley said on Friday.

Kinsley says she, the students and teachers want to "thank everybody who came out to support the event, as well as the local artists who donated, and the Gulfport Merchants."

Kinsley also includes a special thanks to Suzanne King for getting them set up with booth space at the Art Walk and Sandy Duffy, the volunteer coordinator with the Gulfport Merchants Association. Kinsley says Duffy brought over donated items from local artists for the fundraiser. She adds that Bryan Smith of Smith Wicks donated 20% of his sales on Friday night as well.

What's Next?

There will be another art fundraiser at the next Art Walk on Saturday, March 17 from 6 - 10 p.m. on Beach Boulevard. Kinsley says they will be set up on the corner of Beach Blvd. and Shore Blvd.

How You Can Help

To learn more about Beth Myers and tax deductible donations for her treatments, check out the National Foundation for Transplants website.