Kids Curing Cancer’s pasta dinner one of several fundraising events

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The pasta dinner is in its seventh year, she added, and first one since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It went really well,” she said. “As soon as we sent out the post that tickets were available (on their Facebook page), people started sending us messages.”

Jodi added people were asking about tickets even before they went on sale.

Last Saturday’s pasta dinner drew approximately 250 people, one of the largest they’ve ever had for the dinner.

“I think we had a little more than past years,” said Jodi.

Over 100 door prizes were donated, including 15 for a live auction, including some higher priced items like a gaming chair and Yeti cooler.

“The prizes we got were of very big value compared to other years,” said Lauren.

“Because we hadn’t had a pasta dinner for a few years, everyone was very generous,” added Jodi.

Not only were the guests happy and excited, Lauren said the staff and Sprucewood Shores were as well, with many commenting about how happy the crowd was. Staff also volunteered their time, Jodi added, with food also donated.

The family also provided the entertainment as well as other musicians Lauren plays with, including Ken McLeod, Mike Houston and Max Marshall. Sean and Kim Mackinnon helped with the auction. What’s Poppin’ Popcorn Co., owned by a co-worker with Jodi at Anderdon Public School, also donated popcorn while the Sweet Moments Cookie Company also sold DIY cookie kits with proceeds going to KCC. Accurate Creations also surprised them with sweatshirts, Jodi added.

In addition to the pasta dinner, KCC also teams with the Sun County Predators with the girls hockey league also helping to raise money for the overall campaign. Funds are still being collected through pledges from the 11 teams, with top teams and individuals eligible for prizes. Kierstyn plays for Sun

The Windsor Spitfires also assist through ticket sales during certain games, where some are set aside and proceeds from their sale going to KCC. The Amherstburg Admirals also help out with donations.

“They are hoping to make it $100,000 in ten years,” Jodi said of her three children.

The event keeps growing and expanding and the support keeps it going, the Baillargeons said. Lauren added it has evolved from being just their family to the “KCC Family” when all their supporters and donors are factored in. Those also include Erie Shores Hospice and Hogs for Hospice, who were at the pasta dinner.

“It’s not just the three of us,” said Lauren. “It’s not just Lauren, Ty and Kierstyn. It’s the whole KCC family.”

Cancer has touched everyone, Jodi added, and that’s another reason they think people are generous.

“Cancer is something everyone can relate to,”

Jodi stated..