Cancer Survivor Hosts Fundraiser for Pediatric Families

When Bryson Stein was 13, synovial cell sarcoma turned his world upside down. Now 22 and in good health, he's making sure other families fighting pediatric cancer don't face the financial burden alone.

Stein's foundation hosts its second annual "Camouflage Cancer" fundraiser Saturday evening in Clarkston, Washington. The dinner and silent auction raises money exclusively for families dealing with pediatric cancer, covering travel expenses, lost work hours, and other costs that pile up during treatment.

"Every dollar we raise goes to families dealing with pediatric cancer," Stein said. "The money helps them with travel, time away from work for hospital visits and other expenses."

The foundation was born from an unforgettable moment at the 2022 Asotin County Fair. Stein's pig sold for a stunning $100,000 as the community rallied around the teenager battling rare cancer. The sale made headlines and helped ease his family's financial strain.

But Stein didn't want his story to end there. The following year, while on a bear hunt with friend Kacey Jackson-Way, he shared his dream of starting a foundation. He wanted a legacy beyond his diagnosis, one focused on helping others.

Jackson-Way jumped in as co-founder and vice president of the board. "I hadn't successfully been able to get him a bear, but I knew for certain I could help him start a foundation," she said.

Two years later, the nonprofit is making a real difference in the Lewiston-Clarkston area. Stein now works as a real estate agent while running the foundation that helps families navigate the same financial fears his family once faced.

The Ripple Effect

The foundation represents something powerful: gratitude in action. When a community shows up for one family, that family can turn around and support countless others.

Jackson-Way sees Saturday's event as more than fundraising. "It's a night that brings hope, resources and strength to children battling cancer right here in our community," she said.

Families receiving help from the foundation get practical support during their hardest days. Travel to distant hospitals, unpaid time off work, unexpected medical costs—these expenses can devastate a household already dealing with unimaginable stress.

The fundraiser features a presentation, dinner, and silent auction at the Holiday Inn in Clarkston. Organizers encourage casual dress with optional camo attire. Tickets cost $75 per person and must be purchased online by Wednesday at Brysonsteinfoundation.org.

For questions about the foundation or Saturday's event, contact Stein at (509) 552-5035 or email bsteinfoundation@gmail.com.

One $100,000 pig sale sparked a foundation that will help families for years to come.

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