Support Sharon's fight with cancer

Hi, my name is Sydney Hong and I am fundraising for my amazing friend and coworker, Sharon Lynn Hagen. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Sharon for countless fundraisers, community events and live music shows over the years. I have never met someone that worked so tirelessly and selflessly for our community, and the live music industry specifically. She has been a crucial component of live entertainment on Vancouver Island, and will always be an inspiration to those in our community for her generosity and passion.

Why Sharon needs our help:

Last month Sharon was diagnosed with bladder cancer and has already begun a life-altering treatment plan. She is in the early stages of determining the severity of her cancer, and her medical team has been working rigorously to determine whether the cancer has spread elsewhere in her body.

We know that this has been a very stressful and emotional time for Sharon and her family, and we hope that through this benefit we can show her our love, support and appreciation to get through this challenging time.

For decades, Sharon has been a foundation for many live music performances in Nanaimo, and has been a huge supporter of the performing arts at The Queen's, and all over town. Her generosity extends beyond live music, having been a huge part of many community events, organizations and fundraisers, including but not limited to:

- Bathtub Weekend/Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society

- Vancouver Island Exhibition (VIEX)

- Sunfest

- The Nanaimo Blues Society

- 256 Legion Remembrance Day

- Heritage Days

- Dog & Suds

- Party in the Park

- 7-10 Club

- Michael Patrick’s Christmas Fundraiser

- Mike Rails Lung Transplant Benefits

- Bacon & Bevy

Sharon has always been there for us and our community, and now she needs our help!

As of today, Sharon has had a part of a tumor removed that is obstructing her left kidney. A tube has been surgically placed from her kidney to her bladder to temporarily resolve this issue. She will begin chemotherapy on February 15th, and they are plans for radiation to shrink the remaining tumor. Afterwards, Sharon will be having an invasive surgery in Vancouver, during which time she will have her bladder reconstructed. Before this — and for many months afterwards — she will be facing several out-of-town appointments, and check-ups, and will be requiring much-needed downtime to rest and heal. This means stepping back from work, and the live music/events that she loves, to (finally) focus on herself and her recovery.

We hope to not only show our love and support to Sharon but to help alleviate the stress and financial burden that accompanies her diagnosis. Sharon will be needing the funds to help cover travel costs, time off work, a beautiful wig and cover-ups, etc.

I graciously thank you for all your help and support,

Sydney