The recipient of this year’s proceeds will go to Lisa Zumwalde to help her in her fight against cancer.

Lisa’s Story

“I am a 911 dispatcher serving the residents of Ramsey County for the last 24 years.  When I am not at work, I am a homebody on my hobby farm that I share with my fiancée, and his son joins us part-time.  My time is spent tending to horses, chickens and ducks.  Spare time is filled with gardening, including house plants and window herbs in the winter.  I enjoy starting knitting projects that might get finished.  I always have a book nearby.  I also enjoy cooking for loved ones.

I was diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma in 2015 during a routine eye exam.  My only symptom was seeing flashes of light in the affected eye.  Many cases show no symptoms.  Referred to Mayo Clinic, the original tumor was treated with radiation and responded well.  Approximately 50% of Ocular Melanoma cases metastasize and unfortunately mine has.  The first new tumor was found in my liver in 2023 and was treated with ablation.  More tumors were found in 2024 and they are not suitable for surgery.  With few treatment options, I am a part of a clinical trial and hopeful to help advance research to help others.  This requires frequent travel to Mayo Clinic and many missed days from work.  There is no cure for Ocular Melanoma at this time.  This rare and aggressive cancer has 2,000-2,500 new cases diagnosed in the U.S. each year.  More information can be found with the Ocular Melanoma Foundation at ocularmelanoma.org.”

Join us for a great night and to help Lisa in her fight! We are grateful for your continued support! -TCBOB