A single mother of seven and a grandmother of two, Kathy Kelleher was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 and since has been waging a valiant battle against the disease. Recently, she was forced to leave her position as a nursery school teacher at Tree House Child Caring Center in Basking Ridge. She is facing lengthy and expensive treatment, according to the organizers of a fundraiser to help the community resident.

Local entertainers and the Saint James Men of Charity at St. James Church in Basking Ridge are teaming up with the family and friends of Kathy Kelleher to host a fundraising event on Friday, March 2. The fundraiser will include dinner, a Silent Auction, a Tricky Tray, music, dancing and a comedy show, and will be held at Saint James School on South Finley Avenue. The event, tailored to guests 21 years and older, has the theme of "A Night at the Beach."

"Kathy is so well known and loved by members of the Basking Ridge community for her work with children at Tree House as well as her involvement with the Bernards Township schools through her own children and grandchildren," said the event's organizer, Jody D'Agostini. "We are confident that people of all ages and from all walks of life will support this event and help Kathy overcome the financial challenges relating to her medical care.”

Kelleher has been a resident of Basking Ridge for 30 years.

“A Night at the Beach” will feature entertainment by comedian Andy Picarro and D.J. Jim Hemp.  The Country Picnic in Bedminster will cater the dinner. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $50 per person and include food, beer, wine and soda. Assorted frozen rum drinks will also be offered for an additional charge. All proceeds will benefit the "Caring for Kathy" fund.

To purchase tickets, contact Jill Potdevin at 908-625-0860.

To make a cash donation in Kelleher’s honor, mail checks payable to Saint James Men of Charity (note “Caring for Kathy” in the memo) to 89 Keats Road, Basking Ridge, 07920.

Donations of baskets or gift certificates for the Tricky Tray and Silent Auction are also accepted. Please contact Susan Picarro at 908-306-1259.                 

For general information, please call Jody D’Agostini at 908-295-0092.