Candor, NY (WBNG Binghamton) - Cancer benefits are often held to help pay for the expenses of those fighting the disease.
Although Polly Tompkins missed her benefit by just days,
Action news Reporter Brennan Smith shows us how an entire community is honoring the memory of a beloved teacher and friend.
No matter who you ask, Polly Tompkins was an amazing person.
"Polly was someone who always always always had a smile on her face," said Robin Applegarth, Co-Owner of Jack's Restaurant.
"She was very loving, you just got to know her real quick," said Caroline Sullivan of Candor.
"Very positive for the school and her classmates," said Chuck Schroeder of Candor.
Today Candor is honoring a teacher, yankees fan, singer and friend.
First grade teacher Polly Tompkins passed away on Wednesday.
She lived with an aggressive form of breast cancer since 2006.
Her fellow teacher and friend Kate Handy organized Polly Fest, a benefit to help pay for her medical expenses.
"They planned it really fast, and that was her determination, just to be here, and the Lord had different plans for her," said Applegarth.
Tompkins very much wanted to be at her benefit.
She missed being able to be there by just days.
It was held right after a memorial service for her, and her whole community is coming together in her memory.
"We still have to have it, I mean, that's what she would want," said Applegarth.
The benefit at Jack's Restaurant raised money to help pay for Tompkins' remaining medical expenses.
Tickets were sold in advance and at the door.
"There are literally over 100 raffle items that come from businesses in Candor, all the way to the New York Yankees," said Event Organizer Kate Handy from Candor Elementary School.
"I'm selling bracelets and stickers to help raise money for Polly," said Alicia Kasson of Vestal.
More than 500 people came out to support Polly, and although she couldn't be here in person, friends tell us she was here in spirit.
"But she's just real well remembered here with hopefully some laughter because she was a fun, fun girl," said Applegarth.
"I'm remembering her by being happy and cheerful like she always was. ... I miss her," said Olivia Reagan of Candor.
And while the party missed having their guest of honor by just days, they say they'll be remembering her for much longer.
In Candor, Brennan Smith, WBNG-TV Action News.
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