Local Organization's Founder Named Harford’s Most Beautiful Person

Erik Sauer, who founded the There Goes My Hero Foundation, based out of Bel Air, was named Harford’s Most Beautiful Person for 2013.

The Harford County Department of Community Services recognized 35 nominees for Harford’s Most Beautiful People at the 27th annual awards ceremony on Oct. 3. All of the nominees have touched the lives of many in Harford County, according to a release.

Sauer, a leukemia survivor, was diagnosed just before the birth of his second son.  He was admitted to Johns Hopkins Hospital for treatment that included chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. He faced many challenges, but his wife, family, and friends were there for support. 

The foundation provides meals, holds bone marrow drives, fundraisers and other events. Sauer dedicates hundreds of hours per year to his organization, also known by its abbreviated name of “Hero.” 

“I won’t rest until everyone has the same opportunity for recovery that I had,” Sauer said.

This year the nominees for Harford’s Most Beautiful Person included individuals who serve the community in nursing homes, churches, shelters, and civic causes. They worked with youth, special needs populations, hospital patients and others.  

Here's a complete list of nominees:

Brenda Aleman, Patricia Aylmer, Laurena Bell, Josephine Bodt, Michael Bowen, Lawrence Burton, PJ Chambers, Carol Cheicante, Mark Dardozzi, Scott Di Gennaro, Beryl Fleming, Jennie Garrison, Donna Gustafsson, Bonnie Haden, John Haug, Shannon Hitchings, Wynona Hilton-Stanley, Kim and Russell Hurd, Linda Marlow, Edna Matterson, Evelyn McSoreley, Debora Merlock, Barbara Polack, Pastor Al Reeves, Patricia Reeves, Claire Roz, Gary Stokes, Christine Sullivan, Cathy Swisko, Shirley and Alan Thompason, Stanley Williams, and Wanda Williams