SEBAGO – The family of 3-year-old Emily Labrecque is hosting a benefit tonight to raise money to help pay for her care.

Labrecque suffers from a rare form of brain cancer called atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor.

“Emily has been through so much in the last 13 months, it’s unbelievable,” said her aunt, Erica Labrecque.

“She receives her treatments at Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (in Portland), which so far have consisted of five brain surgeries, a cycle of high-dose chemotherapy for 12 months and six weeks of intense radiation among many other procedures.”

Labrecque said her niece is in remission. “She is doing well. She is in good spirits. But she faces a long recovery, including intensive physical therapy to help her regain her ability to walk as well as speech and occupational therapy. She continues to make weekly trips back to Portland for tests and other medical matters.”

Tonight, 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit a fund in her name. The event is a Family Fun Night and Spaghetti Dinner, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Sebago Town Gym, 406 Bridgton Road (Route 107). Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children 3-12.

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Through the Ocean Communities Credit Union, the family has set up The Emily Labrecque Fund to help the family in any way it may need it, from everyday living expenses, rent, propane and food to personal needs of Emily’s and gas to get her to and from her treatments.

A similar benefit a year ago drew about 200 people. Tonight’s should be bigger, Erica Labrecque said.

“This one has been advertised better. We’ve put the word out more. Emily has a Facebook page, and that has generated a lot of interest. She has more than 4,000 people watching her.”

Tonight’s event will feature games, a bouncy house, face painting, a raffle and a spaghetti buffet and other edible treats.

 


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