The Huntsville community has delivered big on their promise to stand behind one of their own.
The Stand with Sluman Fundraiser and Dance, held at Canvas Brewing Co. on March 28, drew an enormous crowd and raised $56,143. The funds will support medical costs for Huntsville native Chris Sluman, who was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in January.
The event was organized by Sluman’s cousins, Linda Fraser and Jamie-Lynn Sluman-Brown. Fraser, who serves as Front of House Manager at Canvas Brewing Co., said the level of support from the community has been overwhelming, with volunteers, donors and sponsors all stepping up to contribute.
“Our family is truly overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve received,” Fraser said.
The evening featured a raffle and silent auction with a large variety of prizes donated by local businesses and residents, including a seven-night stay at a luxury condo in Costa Rica, a golf package at Deerhurst Resort, Toronto Maple Leaf tickets, gift baskets, artwork, and more.
Live music throughout the evening was provided by Holly Ballantine and the Sean Cotton Band. Merchandise such as hats, T-shirts, and sweaters sporting the Stand with Sluman brand were available for purchase, with all proceeds going toward the cause.
Food was available from the Fox in the Henhouse food truck, which donated a portion of its proceeds, while Smokin Hot BBQ provided complimentary late-night fare.
A personal touch came from Sluman’s seven-year-old daughter, Briar, who handmade a large quantity of bracelets for sale at the event, raising $2,615.
Additional fundraising efforts, including a large event in North Bay and a GoFundMe page, have pushed the overall total to more than $347,000.
Fraser said the funds raised are enough to fully cover the $330,000 cost of Sluman’s medication for the next year, two drugs approved by Health Canada but not publicly funded for his diagnosis. She says remaining funds will help offset lost income, and adds that some proceeds are still being collected from outstanding silent auction items.
Fraser emphasized the family’s immense gratitude to everyone in the community who has supported the cause. She said whether through donations, social media posting, participation in events, or simply a hug or laugh, every contribution has meant a great deal to them.
“The words ‘thank you’ will never be enough to express our gratitude…every person has touched our family in one way or another,” Fraser said. “In 5, 10, 20 years from now when Chris is healthy again, we’ll all look back on this time and remember how much love came from our communities who came out to support us in our time of need.”
