Horton Benefit Slated Oct. 1 at Flanders Hotel

OCEAN CITY — Shaina Horton, 25, of Somers Point, gave birth to a beautiful daughter, Zoe, on April 26. Soon after, she was diagnosed with a severe case of cancer, choriocarcinoma, that develops during pregnancy.
The popular and talented Horton and her longtime boy friend, Cliff Palermo, are now struggling to meet family expenses.
The Horton and Palermo families, long time area residents, have joined many of Horton’s friends to raise funds for the popular, community minded couple.
A fundraiser will be held at the Flanders Hotel, 11th Boardwalk, on Oct.1 from 6 to 11 p.m.
“Shaina and Cliff have always been giving individuals,” said Paul Schaeffer, Ocean City businessman who is working on the benefit. “Now it’s time for us to give back to them.”
Horton, a 2003 graduate of Mainland High School and a graduate of Philadelphia University, is undergoing treatment at Cooper Medical Center in Camden. Sloan Kettering in New York, one of the leading Cancer Treatment Centers in the Country, is reviewing the case.
Palermo has taken a leave of absence from his job to care for Shaina’s health and look after his child Zoe.
“The bills are mounting,” said Schaeffer. “We are appealing to the entire community for assistance.”
Horton who graduated with a degree in interior design is currently an employee of the Accent Gallery in Ocean City. She designed the Atlantic City Youth Library and created the mural in the facility. Shaina is also a member of CAP, Ocean City’s Community Arts Project, and she and Cliff have donated many hours toward beautifying the City.
“There are two ways to help,” says Schaeffer. “Folks can attend the fund raiser at the Flanders. It’s called Just Wig It and you’re invited to wear a wig to be donated to the American Cancer Society. The evening includes dinner, dancing, beverages, a silent auction and entertainment.
Tickets are $65. For information and tickets, contact the Accent Gallery, 956 Asbury Ave., Ocean City N.J. 08226 or call 609-398-3577. Donations will also be accepted at the Gallery or Ocean City Home Bank. Checks should be made out to the Horton-Palermo Fund.
“On going support is needed. We greatly appreciate all donations of any amount,” says Schaeffer.
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