The Pink Laundry 5K started as a grassroots effort to help defray the costs of the Vest family's expenses during Stephanie's extended stay at the Mayo Clinic. Having made arrangements to be in Minnesota for only one night, unexpected complications changed the trajectory of Stephanie's prognosis. Suddenly their 24 hour visit, turned into 14 weeks. Friends, family and neighbors rallied to gather resources to ensure that the three children and household we cared for during this extended absence. Money collected from the original 5K event went towards utility bills, food, travel expenses and medical bills. These resources allowed Eric and Stephanie to deal with her severe condition, without worrying about finances. Knowing that the mortgage was being paid, the kids were in good care and food was on the table allowed them focus on her health.
History of Giving:
Subsequent races and fundraisers have generated financial support for The House of Compassion, which offered emotional support and respite for the Vests at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Additional gifts: In 2009, a grant was awarded to a Lee's Summit mother to defray costs during her radiation treatments. In the winter of 2010, a monetary gift was presented to the House of Compassion. In 2011, a grant was awarded to another Lee's Summit mother to help cover living expenses during her long-term cancer care.
Fast-forward to 2011, the Stephanie Vest Foundation was formed to continue to "pay-it-forward" to other local families dealing with similar cancer issues. To be eligible for a grant, one must be a parent facing a cancer diagnosis, with minor children living in the home. Grants are awarded on a case-by-case basis after being reviewed by the Foundation board.
