SONGS FOR HELEN BENEFIT - YOSHI'S SEPT 26TH

[Lois Gilbert]

A benefit concert, "SONGS FOR HELEN," has just been confirmed at Yoshi's, San Francisco. Mark your calendar and check Yoshi's website

When: Saturday, Sept 26
Time: 1:00 - 3:30 PM
Cost: $35.00

Helen's soul mate and best friend for 27 years, George Cables, will perform with an incredible line-up of musicians and very special surprise guests.

We all know how dedicated Helen was to George when she dropped everything for 6 months to look after him in New York during his kidney/liver transplant 2 years ago and a second kidney transplant last year.

A special thanks to George, Jessica Felix and Shirley Sasaki for their huge contributions to organizing this event.

If you're in the Bay Area, please join us for this wonderful opportunity to come together and enjoy George's tribute to Helen. Watch for ticket sales information (probably Tues 9/7) on Yoshi's website: www.yoshis.com
Yoshi's San Francisco
1330 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: 415.655.5600

Scheduled performers:

George Cables

Bobby Hutcherson

Paula West

Michele Rosewoman

Benny Green

Peter Barshay

Bruce Forman

Azar Lawrence

Barry Hutcherson

Jaz Sawyer


Myron Cohen

Mel Martin

Vince Lateano

Pete Yellin

David Ewell


Dee Spencer

[Lois Gilbert]

Helen Wray, George Cables' long-time partner was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is w.o. insurance.

[Lois Gilbert]

So here's how you can help from afar (or across the street) -- A trust account has been established for health care donations.

Any amount that you can spare will be very much appreciated.


How you can help:
1) Personal Check payable to "Helsal's Fund"
2) Cashier's Check or Money Order payable to "Helsal's Fund."

Mail to:
Lorraine Phillips
1212 South Villa Way
Walnut Creek, CA 94595-1470 USA

[hornplayer]

What a terrible irony! Yet another very public example of why we need a public option for health insurance.

I hope they notify the President's people of this event.

[icecream]

thanx for doing this ,, l am very close with george and follow helen's journal on 'caringbridge and just went through breast cancer surgery myself june 4th and radiation just finished aug.20th. l am fine but l was dumbfounded to hear about helen as they both sent me messages of prayers and comfort and support all through my ordeal and she was fine then!.that is why l tell everyone to be proactive about their bodies and their loved ones, lf l hadn't asked to have a mammogram ,who knows, maybe l would have been in stage 3 instead of stage 1 which was my diagnosis! if there is anything l can do ,let me know,l l told george the same all the best, marlene

[Lois Gilbert]

A Wonderous day of Music and Love!

Helen's entourage gathered for an afternoon to enjoy music and to show their support during her most needy of times. Amazing musicians donated their talent, amazing friends filled the hall, amazing volunteers provided their gift of time.

It is incredibly difficult for us to relate to those who could not be there, the feelings and emotions that filled Yoshi's yesterday. All the stories going back 30 years, each set arranged and performed with spirit and transmitted in the most personal way, all weaving their message of strength and love to a woman who has spent so many years supporting and encouraging them. We're speachless. So we thank you Peter for your prose in the Guestbook today!

An event of this magnitude cannot happen without the intervention of professionals, who give of their time, energy and talent. To the musicians, each and every one, who understand the need. To KCSM radio for the interview with George. To Jesse Hamlin for the mention in the SF Chronicle. To Jessica Felix who is always, always, ALWAYS involved in organizing events. The gift of her expertise and attention to detail is PRICELESS. To Sharon O'Connor (and John) who donated the proceeds of "Music Cooks" CD sales to Helsal's Fund. To Brent Thomas for organizing the video. To George Cables and Patrick Murphy for donating CDs to sell.

And then there are the other donors... the volunteers who dedicated their time at the sales desk to allow the 'family' a chance to enjoy the concert (Vicky, Sharona & John). To Wisso for organizing the printing of gift cards from one of Helen's watercolors. To Shirley for always stepping up to the plate. And so many more.

Thank you all for giving in the most personal way.

If only Helen could have been there to feel the love and energy in the room. It actually felt as though she was there, hovering over the crowd, soaking in the vibes, hearing the best ever rendition of Helen's Song with us... we felt her presence.

But that couldn't be, she was safely ensconced at home with Mum. Far be it from her to break the rules and sneak into the closed-off balcony to privately witness a concert 'all about her'. We're certain that duo wouldn't break the rules... or would they? They've done it before those two. Just saying folks, SHE WAS THERE!!

George left on a jet plane very early this morning. When he gets his feet back on the ground we'll ask him to share his personal thoughts of the day in the Journal. Pictures to come as well.

Total proceeds for the day... $8500... just amazing.

from

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/helenwray