Dr. Jeff Glass and his wife, Dessa are bringing the fight against cancer to their backyard, literally. By hosting the American Cancer Society's 2013 Pineywoods Cattle Baron's Gala at their Jack Creek Ranch in Hudson, the Glass family hopes to help raise funds for local cancer patient care and support, as well as for cancer research. Fighting cancer has been a personal struggle for the Glass family for decades as several members have been diagnosed with breast, ovarian, and skin cancers. And most recently, their youngest child was diagnosed and treated for thyroid cancer.
"My mom had breast cancer in the early 1990s which required her to undergo a mastectomy, and then be treated with chemo and radiation therapy, " said Dr. Glass. "My wife, Dessa had melanoma-in-situ on her leg requiring an extensive resection and then she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 12 years ago and needed emergency surgery." Although both women remain vigilant in watching for signs of cancer recurrence, today they are both cancer-free and living a normal, healthy life.
However, recently the Glass family was once again challenged by cancer when their 13-year-old daughter, Julia was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. "It was such a shock to us," explained Dessa. "Just when you think everyone one is healthy, cancer raises its ugly head and has its grip on one of our children." Julia had absolutely no symptoms of the disease but at her yearly checkup her doctor, Dr. Cristina Graves of The Children's Clinic, discovered the tumor in Julia's thyroid. Julia underwent thyroid removal at MD Anderson, Houston. Today, she too is cancer-free and on her way to a full recovery.
The 4th annual Pineywoods Cattle Baron's Gala slogan is "Leavin' Cancer in the Dust" to complement the theme of "Route 66." On Saturday evening, October 12, the Glasses will open up their 280 acres of pasture lands and rolling hills to live entertainment, delicious food, games, live and silent auctions along with vintage cars and trucks lining the entrance. "We love the Route 66 theme!" Dessa enthusiastically exclaims. "Jeff collects and works on cars as a hobby and he used to cruise Route 66 when he was younger. We can't give away too many details about the decorations and layout of the venue, but needless to say people are going to say 'wow!' when they pull in."
Top entertainment billing at the event is 2008 Academy of Country Music award winner for "Best New Male Vocalist", Jack Ingram. Known for his hardcore country music style, the Texas-born songwriter and performer has been on the short list of next generation artists who could fill the boots of Lone Star legends like Willie and Waylon and the boys. Also, performing is American Idol semi-finalist and Lufkin's own, Kendall Beard who will be performing her debut album, "All Around Girl" at the Baron's reception. The opening band is Lone Star Attitude, a singing group who has a unique twist to pop music with Texas style and pride.
Over 200 volunteers have pitched in to get the venue ready, and they have also raised funds in support of this year's event. "We love the Lufkin community and believe in doing our part," Dr. Glass explains. "Because we have experienced cancer firsthand in our lives, we fully understand the concept of fighting for the cause." The Glasses believe that by working together as a community, we can achieve incredible results and shift the fight into high gear thereby, "Leavin' Cancer in the Dust."
Tickets are still available at the American Cancer Society office, at the gate the night of the event, or by calling 936-414-2470. For more information on the Pineywoods Cattle Baron's Gala event go to www.pineywoodscattlebaronsgala.org.
