Posted: 11/5/03

Event benefits Burgess family

Jessica Foster
Staff Writer

He would do it for themówithout hesitation. Perhaps that is why Harmony and Ashley Venburg are planning a benefit to help their friendóthe kind of guy who helps out when he can.

Now, as Burgess battles cancer, the community has an opportunity to help him and his family. A benefit for Bill Burgess is scheduled for 4-9 p.m. Friday, November 7 at the Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W. Broadway Ave.

ìI wanted to do something but going to see him at the hospital didnít seem like enough,î Harmony Venburg said. ìThis seemed like the best way to help him and his family.î

Admission to the benefit is $10 and includes a spaghetti dinner, Matt Haider on the piano, and hypnotist Mike Colucci.

There also is a meat raffle and silent auction for several items including a computer system.

The cancer diagnosis was slow in coming. Burgess had trouble breathing and a cold that just wouldnít go away. Doctors considered a sinus infection and pneumonia and finally found the tumors after a chest X-ray.

Then, a large tumor was pushing at his heart and inhibiting Burgessí ability to breathe.

Since late this summer when doctors diagnosed Burgess with Large B Cell Lymphoma, the teenager has spent just two weeks at home. Life for Burgess and his family has involved highly aggressive chemotherapy treatments, hair loss, struggles, weakness and prayer.

Large B Cell Lymphoma, is especially rare in Minnesota, said Diane Burgess, the patientís mom. ìTheyíve never seen this kind of cancer at Childrenís (Hospital),î she said.

The family is working with doctors from outside sources, such as the Mayo Clinic. Treatment methods commonly used in the United States have a 65-70 percent cure rate. The French method, which Burgess is using, has a 85-95 percent cure rate.

ìItís very tough chemotherapy,î Diane Burgess said. In one session, Burgessí kidneys failed. His mouth and throat all the way to his stomach is sore. ìThat poor kid. It just makes me die every day.î

The Burgess family does have reason to celebrate. A recent M.R.I. revealed dramatic shrinkage of existing tumors and no new growth.

And she said she isnít surprised, though she is pleased, her sonís friends would do such a thing.

ìI think itís wonderful, heís always had really close friends,î she said. ìHeís such a good kid, so willing to help everyone else.î

Burgess was approved for Make A Wish and he still is deciding what he would most like to do.

Individuals who would like to help out but who cannot make it to Fridayís benefit may send checks to: William Burgess, 21235 Iverson Ave. N., Forest Lake, MN, 55025.

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