Those living in the small town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, have joined together to help their friend, and neighbor, in need. The community of Hayden has really stepped up in their efforts to help Sharon Rogers, a local woman who was recently diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

The community has organized a benefit bazaar, which will take place this coming weekend, in an effort to raise money for Rogers.

"It’s a little community, and we don’t have all the resources big communities have," explains Kathy Hockin, who has helped plan the bazaar. “And when somebody’s having a hard time and is laid up, we try to do what we can do. It’s nothing formal — we just try to do the right thing."

Living with Leukemia

Rogers is reportedly currently undergoing her third round of chemotherapy treatment for her illness. According to family and friends, the first two rounds didn’t help much, and since Rogers was diagnosed in 1999, she has endured a great deal of emotional and physical pain.

The volunteers working at the bazaar will be selling personalized gift baskets, candles and stuffed animals, with all proceeds going towards helping Rogers with her medical care. The event will be taking place at the Routt County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall and Rogers hopes it will also help to raise awareness about leukemia and its causes.

50 baskets have already been assembled and among the other items locals can buy at this free event are Christmas decorations, women’s clothing, children’s clothing, rugs and more.

"I think it’s wonderful," Rogers said. "It’s really good."

Tags: "chronic lymphocytic leukemia", chronic lymphocytic leukemia, leukemia, News