Philipsburg community rallies around foster parent battling cancer. Here's how to help

Centre Daily Times - 2/20/2020

Feb. 20--A mother of 11 kids who has fostered more than 75 children, Kelly Watson has dedicated her life to helping others. But now, the Philipsburg community is working to help her.

After recently being diagnosed with stage 4 adenocarcinoma -- a cancer that has spread to her intestines, liver and lymph nodes -- Watson is seeking treatment at a facility in Philadelphia. In an effort to help cover the cost of travel, medical expenses and child care, a benefit dinner will be held from 3-6 p.m. Sunday at the Hope Fire Company Recreation Center, located at 500 N. 6th St. in Philipsburg. Tickets cost $10, and all funds will be donated to the Watson family.

Originally from State College, Watson moved to Philipsburg after meeting her husband, Daniel Watson. Throughout their marriage, the Watsons have been foster parents for over 25 years -- opening up their home to both kids and adults as part of a lifesharing program. Most recently, the couple adopted seven kids, and five of them have special needs, said 21-year-old daughter Sophie Watson, who is now helping take care of her younger siblings.

"She's always willing to donate, always willing to help out," Sophie Watson said. "Chances are good if you've ever held a public fundraiser, she has donated. Let's show her how much we care about her and help her."

The dinner will include spaghetti and meatballs with dine-in or take-out options. In addition to the dinner, attendees can participate in a raffle, silent auction and bake sale.

A GoFundMe campaign was organized to help pay for Watson's medical expenses. The first bill, which was issued last month, totaled at $7,500.

"Her medical bills will be insurmountable," wrote Leza Harary, the organizer of the GoFundMe page. "Kelly has given most of her adult life to support, nurture and care for the disadvantaged souls who were lost in the system, and now more than ever, she and her family need our help."

So far, residents have donated items for the auction and bake sale, and the online fundraiser has raised over $5,000. In addition to the benefit, Sophie said community members can help by donating money or by cooking meals for the family during the week.

"She's taught me that even the smallest things can mean the world," Sophie Watson said. "We could always use meals. My mom was always the person who cooked, so meals are helpful and positive prayers."

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