Applebee's Breakfast Fundraiser

Middle Earth, a local nonprofit serving youth, is hosting a breakfast to raise funds for Leslie Ramirez, an 11-year-old girl from Bound Brook, with brain cancer.

The breakfast will take place on Saturday, December 15, 2012 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Applebee’s in Bridgewater (640 Promenade Blvd). Tickets cost $10 each and can be purchased in advance by calling Middle Earth at 908-725-7223 or at the door on the day of the event.

Middle Earth youth will be volunteering their time to serve breakfast to the community. “We promise every child the opportunity to help others,” said Maria Strada, Executive Director of Middle Earth. “Our teens feel valued when they can make a difference in someone else’s life. They are excited to help Leslie in her fight against cancer.”

Leslie was diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer in April 2011. She underwent brain surgery, which could not fully remove the tumor, has received radiation, and continues to receive chemotherapy and physical therapy. Leslie has dealt with losing her hair, having seizures and surgeries, and missing school and her friends. Despite her hardships, anyone who meets Leslie is instantly taken by her vibrant, positive personality and her unending strength and courage.

When Leslie was diagnosed, her mother took a leave of absence from work to bring Leslie to Sloane-Kettering in NYC for treatments and to care for her. In August, Leslie’s mother was laid off from her job, losing the family’s health insurance benefits. They face enormous financial difficulties.

Applebee’s puts on a truly delicious breakfast, and the entire community is invited to attend. All proceeds from the event will pay the family’s medical bills. If you would like to help, but cannot attend the breakfast, visit: http://steps-together.com/leslie.