Benefit raises $9,500 for Healing Patch

After losing her son Nicholas unexpectedly last March, Dena (Foreman) Karabinos wanted to honor his life and make a difference.

The inaugural Nicholas Foreman Memorial Benefit Pool Tournament on Feb. 11 at the Shovel Head Tavern in Cresson raised nearly $9,500 to benefit the Healing Patch Children's Grief Program.

"We have such an incredible community that rallied around us to remember Nicholas and support a great cause that helps grieving children," Dena Karabinos said.

"Thank you to the many people who helped to coordinate the event, volunteer or donate their time, money or items to make this event a success.

"Shovel Head Tavern graciously hosted our event, and Myers Amusements donated items to help us. We also want to give special thanks to The Pines and Felix and the Hurricanes for playing music for us."

Along with the pool tournament and lively music, the event included a basket raffle with more than 100 baskets donated by local families and businesses.

"Our children are our future. We need them as much as they need us," Karabinos shared. "I'm hoping Nicholas' story and his benefit event will help at least one person. He had big dreams. His voice will love on through us."

Healing Patch services are offered free to grieving children and families at centers in Altoona and Ebensburg and at schools in Bedford, Blair, Cambria and surrounding counties.

To learn more about local grief resources or to refer a child/family for services, contact the Healing Patch at 1-800-445-6262 or visit homenursingagency.com.