The annual Pirate Party supporting the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center will take place Jan. 13 in Covington, a swashbuckling affair that uses great costuming and good fun to raise money for patients and raise awareness of the nonprofits that support these patients and their families.
The 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. event that began as a birthday party for Dr. Jack Saux III, known affectionately as the "The Pirate Oncologist" at the center, has grown into a fundraiser, last year generating $29,000 that the Covington center used for patient assistance programs and removing barriers to care for patients who need it.
Those who attend this year's party at the Columbia Tap Room can enjoy fine food provided by local restaurants, including The Tap Room and Gallagher’s, and an open bar and wine from Artisan Fine Wines. Live music will be provided by the Lost in the Sixties band. There will also be a live and silent auction featuring local art, unique experiences and an extensive array of goods and services provided by local businesses.
This year’s celebration will be especially meaningful, as Saux has been navigating his own cancer journey. In June, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer but has continued to see patients.
“Over the past few months, I have been overwhelmed with how much support I have received since I first announced my cancer diagnosis,” Saux said. “This community means so much to me and my family. Time and time again, members of this community come out and support their neighbors. Here on the northshore, no one fighting cancer is forced to battle alone.”
A variety of sponsorship packages are available for the party and community members can take advantage of early bird general admission pricing through Dec. 15. To learn more, visit northshorefoundation.org/pirate-party or contact sauxpirateparty@gmail.com.