Standing Strong Against Cancer: Connie Kasella Benefit Event at Cowboy Jack's

When cancer’s physical and financial devastation strikes a family, the trend in community benefit events can help overcome the hard times. On Thurs., Feb. 27, 2014, from 6 - 10 PM, Cowboy Jack’s, 1690 Woodlane Dr. in Woodbury will host “Standing Strong Against Cancer” for long-time Woodbury resident Connie Kasella. After a “polar vortex” winter, is there a better way to support a good cause and shake off cabin fever than a night in a place known for boot scootin’ boogie and mechanical bull rides?

Guests will enjoy a taco bar buffet and non-alcoholic beverages for $10/adults and $5/children 10 and under. Cash bar will be available. Tony Garry, a local multi-talented musician, will provide his unique brand of entertainment throughout the event. www.tonygarry@tonygarry.com A silent auction with a wide variety of items will further help the cause. The entire community is invited to attend.

Connie’s Story
In June 2013, Connie responsibly booked her recommended 50-year-old baseline colonoscopy. Imagine the shock and fear she faced to find Stage III colon cancer had already taken hold and was threatening her future. Since then, she has undergone major tumor removal surgery, ileostomy placement, two rounds of chemotherapy and numerous unpleasant side effects. Next up is another re-connective surgery and dietetic rehab to get all the ‘plumbing’ working. This runs well into 2016, keeping her from working and bringing in money to support her family.     

A St. Paul Central High School graduate, in one of ‘the biggest small towns in America,’ she went on to work in regional commercial real estate for two decades including Towle, Wellington and others. There she fostered and cemented life-long friendships. She is also a volunteer for the Jeremiah Program. Connie’s two teens, a son and daughter, attend Woodbury high schools.  

In recent years, Connie’s artistic abilities surfaced, and she is producing amazing pieces of art. December 2010 Woodbury Magazine featured her unique creations. She is now a regular consignment artist at A Whimsical Place, a boutique in City Centre Place. Fortunately, the reflective solitude of artistic creation can also be healing when cancer side effects allow. 

“I am so deeply touched by this outpouring of love and support from friends, family, neighbors, church congregations…even people I don’t know!  It’s amazing how people are ready to jump in and pay it forward, even backward,” said Kasella. “You can be certain I’ll be right there to help others in the same boat when I’m done killing this beast!”

 “Cowboy Jack’s is proud to be putting down roots in Woodbury, and we have big plans to become an integral part of this community. Showing strong support for our residents like Connie goes a long way in demonstrating just what integral really means,” said Kristin Kopietz, on-site manager.

The Standing Strong committee is seeking financial donations and silent auction items. Visit www.kasellabenefit.webs.com for added details.  Contact Sandy Swanson at 651-738-7148 or sandyswanson17@yahoo.com for more information and to make arrangements for donations.