SPOKANE, Wash. – The Community Cancer Fund, or CCF Classic is happening tonight at the Spokane Arena, offering more than just a basketball game between Gonzaga and Portland. Proceeds from the event will support local cancer patients in Spokane.
For those not affiliated with Gonzaga as students or season ticket holders, tonight presents a rare opportunity to see the Zags play in person. However, the event’s significance goes beyond basketball, as it aims to provide support for community members battling cancer.
14 months ago, Jaime Johnson was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma… a rare blood cancer that affects the plasma cells in bone marrow… weakening her immune system. It is incurable. This cancer only affects about 1% of people, and it typically affects people about 20 years older than Jaime was when she got her diagnosis. Doctors told her she had between 18 months and 5 years to live, unless they find a cure.
Jaime was not able to attend the CCF Classic last year because she was in chemotherapy. She had to receive a lethal-dose of chemo as part of her treatment, before being brought back to life moments later.
Jaime is hoping that the public fills the Arena for the CCF classic, because proceeds from ticket sales will go right back to local community members fighting cancer, and to doctors looking for a cure.
And a cure, for Jaime, means more time with her family and friends.
A portion of proceeds from tonight’s game will support lodging for patients receiving radiation or chemotherapy in Spokane. The Ronald McDonald House, which provides meals and housing for families with hospitalized children, will also receive support. Additionally, Camp Goodtimes, a YMCA summer camp for kids fighting cancer, will benefit from the proceeds.
Last year, the Community Cancer Fund provided over 2,000 room nights and meals for families in need. Even though she was unable to go last year, Jaime is thankful to be able to attend this year.
“I’m gonna make every moment count… I’m… I’m gonna have fun while it lasts… and there’s enough things to be sad about… it’s not helping anything,” Johnson stated.
The game tips off at 6:00 p.m., with tickets starting at around $50. You can watch the game on NonStopLocal KHQ or stream it on SWXLocalSports.com. Tickets are still available here: https://ccfclassic.com/2024/10/06/community-cancer-fund-classic-2025/
