Gina Carlson, philanthropist and long-time advocate for St. Jude’s charity, needs your help. She is hosting a fundraiser for Emma, a typical 3-year-old girl in Northern Virginia who was recently diagnosed with a horrible disease — Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glima (DIPG) – and Gina invites you to attend.

DIPG is an inoperable brain tumor that is resistant to treatment. It is a stone cold baby killer; a death sentence for the children that it attacks and it carries a 0 percent survival rate.

Emma’s parents, Teal and Jay are devastated and struggling to deal with their emotional turmoil. Jay is taking a leave of absence from work to spend more time with Emma and the family; while this fills an emotional gap it leaves a huge void for the family finances — especially considering the costly medical treatments ahead. For those of you who follow Gina’s blog luccasblessings.com you know that Gina has a passion for serving others and when she heard Emma’s story she knew she had to help.

After consulting with husband John, defenseman for the Washington Capitals, Gina decided to plan a benefit for Emma’s family at Don Tito’s in Arlington, VA. Together, she and John rallied fellow team members, Karl Alzner, Nicklas Backstrom, and Brooks Orpik to also support and appear at the event. The benefit feature a raffle that will include a team signed Capitals jersey and other signed memorabilia from Capitals players. Gina encourages fans to “bring cash”. Tickets to the benefit are $75 AND you must bring an Emma Strong t-shirt. Emma’s family will receive ALL proceeds from the benefit and T-shirt sales. (Nick, John, Brooks and Karl will be available to sign your shirt at the benefit.)

Event Details:
Date: February 19 @ 5 pm
Place: Don Tito’s – Arlington, VA
Ticket Cost: $75

To reserve a ticket email luccasblessings@gmail.com
Order an Emma Strong t-shirt here: www.bonfirefunds.com/emma-strong