Hoops for Life

Get ready to laugh this weekend. Comedian Chonda Pierce will be in town Friday night as part of the Hoops for Life fundraiser, a two-day event that raises money to fight brain cancer.

Hoops for Life was started in memory of Sahara "Hoops" Aldridge, who died in 2007 at the age of 13 from a malignant brain tumor. Sahara's parents, Shannon and Amy Aldridge, started the fundraising effort with a Hoops for Life 5k run/walk in 2010. Singer Rick Springfield also has appeared in Cape Girardeau to help raise money for the cause.

This year's events include the Friday "Girls' Night Out" fundraiser with Pierce and a run/walk Saturday.

Pierce is known for her clean and Christian-based comedy. She has appeared at several national venues, and her appearance at Central High School's Richard D. Kinder Performance Hall should be fun.

Tickets may be purchased by calling 800-965-9324 or online at itickets.com. Shannon Aldridge said that as of Monday morning about 500 tickets had been sold, but some still are available.

The walk/run Saturday has quickly become one of the most popular events of its kind in the area. As of Monday morning, Aldridge said more than 500 people were registered.

Shannon and Amy Aldridge have done great work in raising money for brain cancer research. Anyone who has had a child die knows the pain associated with such a loss. But the couple, along with many generous people in this community, have found opportunities to honor Sahara and help others who face similar challenges.

We hope you consider supporting these events.