Fighting Cancer, Making Art, and Cycling Across America

Last Friday, I attended a heartwarming fundraiser for the Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research located in Seattle, Washington. They have been working on ground-breaking biotechnology aimed at curing childhood cancer without the harmful effects of chemotherapy or radiation.

I was made aware of the Ben Towne Center through my niece and nephew who are raising money for the foundation by riding their bikes across the U.S. in the Race Across America (RAAM). They will be the youngest 4-person relay team to compete this year – my nephew is 16 years old (second from right), and my niece is 19 (at right). They are RAAM Team BTF

As a way to donate to the cause, I created a quilt to be displayed in the Ben Towne Center.

I was so intrigued when I learned how their research transforms a patient’s own T-cells (immune cells) into virtual super hero cancer fighters. The idea that one cell can infiltrate another became the inspiration for the quilt.

The cellular, biological nature of the Mineral Forest Collection of prints that I also designed, became the perfect compliment to the quilt pattern.

The quilt title, T is for Transformation, takes into consideration the literal T-cell imagery as well as the incredible effect this new biotechnology will have on the lives of children and their families.

Lori’s Notebook