Poway Gives Back: Help Support a Young Boy With Diabetes

Recently, the family found a company that can provide a specially trained dog that will be able to sense fluctuations in Brian's blood sugar and potentially head off a deadly situation. Twice in the last year, Brian has been taken to Rady Children's Hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis, and in one case given a 20 percent chance of survival. If his blood sugar fluctuates while he's sleeping he can slip into a coma without warning.

The cost of the dog and training is $20,000, and that's where you come in. Members of the Poway Kiwanis Club, of which Bob Krans is a past President, have organized a fundraising dinner and auction to help raise the money. They're calling the event Brian's Blessing, and it will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19, at the home of Ernie and Patti Ryder.

In addition to hosting the event, Patti is head of the non-profit foundation that will handle the money raised. The casual dress event will be emceed by News 8 meteorologist Shawn Styles.

Poway City Councilman Jim Cunningham will serve as auctioneer. Auction items include an autographed guitar and a one-week luxury condo stay in Cabo San Lucas. Tickets for the event may be purchased at The Watch Man, 13434 Poway Road, and are also available on the Poway Kiwanis website, www.powaykiwanis.org.

If you can't attend but would like to donate, mail your contribution to The Summit for Children Worldwide, 16955 Via Del Campo, suite 115,  San Diego, Ca. 92127.

Bark for Life

We mentioned it several weeks ago and it's happening this weekend. Bark For Life is this Saturday, Sept. 21, at Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd. in Valley Center, beginning at 8 a.m.

The noncompetitive walk for dogs and their families is to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer. According to the Society, one in three people will be diagnosed with cancer at some time during their lifetime. If they're lucky, they'll have a four-legged companion by their side, while on the road to recovery, giving unconditional love, joy and compassion without judgments about the cancer survivor's abilities and appearances.

If you haven't registered to walk go to www.relayforlife.org/barkvalleycenterca.

Need Document Shredding?

Reduce your paper clutter safely and help the Poway High PTSA this Saturday, Sept. 21, from 8 a.m. to noon. The shred-a-thon will be happening in the Poway High School north parking lot, 15500 Espola Rd. The cost per box is $5 and you don't have to remove staples or clips. For more details email pgpta1@yahoo.com.

Fruit, Vegetable Pickers Needed

The Backyard Produce Project provides fresh fruits and vegetables to local families in need from local residential gardens and orchards willing to donate their produce. While some choose to drop off their bounty on the 4th Thursday of the month, Backyard Produce offers to harvest it for you and is in current need of volunteers who are willing to do that. It is an enjoyable outdoor group activity. If you have the time to help call Jane Radatz at jradatz@att.net or call 858-485-5449.