WESTFIELD – Friends and family are rallying behind lifelong resident John Clark, a contractor who has built and remodeled homes for more than 30 years.
Clark, president of Clark Construction, Inc. on West Road, discovered a lump on his neck in December and after meeting with his physician, was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. He is traveling to appointments at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and will be receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatments for several months at Mercy Medical Center’s cancer center.
“Being self-employed, John faces some financial challenges since he cannot work during treatment,” said Dan Moriarty, who is helping to coordinate a fundraiser with Clark’s family at the Elks Lodge on Franklin Street on Feb. 20 from 4-10 p.m.
“Family and friends are hopeful that this fundraiser can help defray some of his financial challenges during this difficult time,” said Moriarty.
Paula Clark noted that after biopsies were completed, Clark’s tumor cannot be removed at this time since it is too close to major arteries.
“They are trying to shrink the tumor at this time,” said Clark.
Moriarty and his wife Maureen have hired Clark over the years for several projects with their home and have always been impressed with the “quality” of his work.
“People who know John know what a wonderful and compassionate guy he is,” said Moriarty. “He has done so much for many people simply because he is John and he believes in doing the right thing.”
Moriarty said it was his wife’s idea to conduct this fundraiser and they are working together with Clark’s family to ensure a successful event.
“John is so good-hearted and has a genuine concern for others,” said Moriarty. “He’s honest and honorable and people who know him love him.”
The fundraiser will feature a buffet style meal, catered by Clark’s family members. Deli platters, finger sandwiches, soups, salads and pasta are planned as well as a variety of desserts. A cash bar will be available.
Disc jockey Sean Duclos of West Springfield will be volunteering his time to provide the music for the evening.
Moriarty noted that everyone who attends will be entered into a door prize drawing for a 32” flat screen television. In addition, a host of prizes including gift baskets and gift cards will be raffled off throughout the evening.
“We ask those who know John to help make this event a success,” said Moriarty. “Your presence would mean so much to him. Please help us help John on Feb. 20.”
Tickets are $20 per person if purchased by Feb. 19; tickets at the door will be $25. For advance tickets, to make a donation, or to donate a raffle prize, contact Moriarty at (413) 562-0398 or Paula Clark at (413) 437-4070.
