2/1/13 - More than 600 people attended a fundraising event last night for a Brighton man who was recently diagnosed with cancer. 30-year-old Mark Howell is president of a local IT company who also coaches youth soccer. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October, underwent a 14-hour surgery in November, and will soon begin chemotherapy. Last night's fundraiser was organized by Barb Binkley, co-owner of Cooper and Binkley Jewelers in Brighton, to help with Howell's medical bills. She says Mark has become like a son to her through his coaching and mentoring of her son. The event took place at Crystal Gardens in Genoa Township and featured several live music acts, including X Factor star Jeff Gutt. It also had live and silent auctions with hundreds of items donated by local businesses including jewelry, wine, and tools. Binkley says her original goal was to raise $30-$40,000 with a couple hundred tickets sold, but that goal increased when she saw the large number of people who wanted to purchase tickets. She expects to hold more fundraisers to help with medical bills as Howell battles his cancer. Cooper and Binkley Jewelers in Brighton is accepting donations made out to the Mark Howell Foundation, and those who wish to donate online can click on the link below. (TD)
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