Print Article 3/21/2023 After losing her son Nicholas unexpectedly last March, Dena (Foreman) Karabinos wanted to honor his life and make a difference. The first annual Nicholas Foreman Memorial Benefit Pool Tournament on Feb. 11 at the Shovel Head Tavern in Cresson raised nearly $9,500 to benefit the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program.
“We have such an incredible community that rallied around us to remember Nicholas and support a great cause that helps grieving children,” Karabinos said. “Thank you to the many people who helped to coordinate the event, volunteer or donate their time, money or items to make this event a success. Shovel Head Tavern graciously hosted our event, and Myers Amusements donated items to help us. We also want to give special thanks to The Pines and Felix and the Hurricanes for playing music for us.”
Along with the pool tournament and lively music, the event included a basket raffle with more than 100 baskets donated by local families and businesses.
The first annual Nicholas Foreman Memorial Benefit Pool Tournament was held on Feb. 11 at the Shovel Head Tavern in Cresson. Planning team members recently presented a check for nearly $9,500 to the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program. Pictured from left are Eugene Slebodnick; Crissy Tickerhoof; Dena and Chris Karabinos; Shalen Steinbugl, Healing Patch volunteer coordinator/grief specialist; Kim Sieg, Healing Patch volunteer, and Autumn and Bill Slone.
“Our children are our future. We need them as much as they need us,” Karabinos shared. “I’m hoping Nicholas’ story and his benefit event will help at least one person. He had big dreams. His voice will love on through us.”
Healing Patch services are offered free to grieving children and families at centers in Altoona and Ebensburg and at schools in Bedford, Blair, Cambria and surrounding counties. To learn more about local grief resources or to refer a child/family for services, please contact the Healing Patch at 1-800-445-6262 or visit homenursingagency.com.
About the Healing Patch
The Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program began in 2006 as a free peer support program for children and their families who have suffered the loss of a significant person, such as a parent, sibling, grandparent or close family member. Since that time, the program has expanded to support children through in-school services, grief resources and other community services. Sharing memories and experiences allows grieving children and families to discover that what they are going through is normal and that hope and healing are possible. The Healing Patch is a free service to the community and relies on individual and community donations, grants and fundraising events for support. If you would like to support the Healing Patch by donating or volunteering, please contact us at 1-800-445-6262 or homenursingagency.com. The Home Nursing Agency Foundation is supported by the United Ways of Bedford County, Blair County, Huntingdon County and the Laurel Highlands.
