November 22, 2002

MGHers got an early jump on their holiday shopping at the 10th annual FAO Schwarz Holiday Shopping Benefit Nov. 14. The benefit helps raise money for the Friends of the MGH Cancer Center. More than 600 guests shopped for games, gifts and goodies at the toy store and raised more than $300,000. The money will help the volunteer organization provide comfort, support and education to MGH cancer patients and their families.

MGH Trustee Judy Friend, left, and her daughter Charlotte

The evening featured a silent auction, which included a weekend for two at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge with dinner at the Rialto Restaurant and a Red Sox sports package that included 14 tickets to a luxury rooftop box at Fenway Park.

Several notable authors also were on hand to autograph books and lend support to the MGH. Children's author Elizabeth Bahlie was there to autograph copies of her book "Bernelly & Harriet: The Country Mouse and the City Mouse." Jody Adams from the Rialto signed copies of her book, "In the Hands of a Chef." Janet Wyman Coleman also was autographing copies of her books, "Famous Bears and Friends" and "Fast Eddie." A portion of the proceeds from the book signing and holiday shopping benefited the MGH.

For more information about the Friends of the MGH Cancer Center, call (617) 726-1063.