Cottonwood community raises funds for bone cancer patient Troy Parke

Photo by Tracye Dethero

FAMILY SUPPORT -- Denise Parke-Paras, Kay Parke-Hartman, Brian Parke and Troy Parke share a few poignant moments together during a recent Cottonwood Community Hall fundraiser. Troy Parke and his mother, Kay, are both battling cancer. Troy Parke was diagnosed in February with an aggressive form of bone cancer, Multiple Myeloma.

On August 15th, the Cottonwood Community banded together to raise money for Troy Parke and his family to help with the family's living expenses while Parke is unable to work full time due to being aggressively treated for bone cancer.

Parke was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in February of this year. Sandi Cappello of Sandi's Specialties in Cottonwood along with other volunteers, put together the "Troy Boy," a philly steak cheese sandwich with all the fixings which sold for $10 each.

Hot Shots Entertainment donated their disc jockey services for the event.

The fundraiser was held at the community center in Cottonwood. Approximately 400 people came out to show their support for Parke.

Besides the "Troy Boy," sandwich which was named by one of Parke's sons, a drawing was held with items donated by Cottonwood Merchants. An auction was held for a hand-made quilt and other items.

The Parke family spent the day surrounded by family, friends and community members who rallied in support for Parke.

Unfortunately Parke's mother, Kay, also has cancer.

"My sister Denise and her family moved back to the area from Sacramento to take care of mom. My brother Brian and his family moved home from Idaho for the same reason. We support one another," said Parke.

It is not yet known how much money was raised for Troy and his family, but other fundraisers are planned in Cottonwood in September.

"The people here, are the heart beat of our community. We are supposed to be in a recession, and look at how many people have turned out to show their support," said Parke. "It says a lot for the people of Cottonwood and Northern Tehama County. I am so grateful to everyone."

Parke's wife, Deb, and other family members were also on hand to enjoy and help with the event.