Auburn - A local cancer survivor reached out to another city man now fighting the disease by organizing a fund-raiser to help pay for his treatment.

Mike Villano headed up the organization of a benefit dinner for David Jones, who was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia last year and is undergoing chemotherapy. Organizers estimate that at least 300 people turned out Saturday at the Ukranian National Club on 113 Cottage St.

"It's been just wonderful to see all the support I have," said Jones as he looked out at the people populating the tables at the Ukrainian National Club. "It's been amazing. I feel like nothing is wrong with me, seeing this."

Jones, who works as a parts specialist at Kubis Auto Parts on North Division Street, first met Villano at the shop.

After Villano learned that Jones had been diagnosed with cancer, he told him to see the same Syracuse oncologist who has treated him. Jones said he didn't want to go to the oncologist at first, but Villano convinced him to go. Jones is now undergoing an experimental treatment with a new cancer drug, Gleevic. "I'm going to fight it," said Jones.

"I'm like the Energizer bunny. And he inspired me," said Jones in reference to Villano.

Villano has survived three types of cancer. "I live for today and never worry about tomorrow," said Villano.

While Jones has insurance through his employer, co-pays and other sundries add up, he said. Gleevic costs more than $160 a day.

Jones' diagnosis with cancer was only the latest in the string of personal tribulations. His wife, Florence, is also suffering from cancer. They have lost a child through miscarriage. Jones also lost two siblings in car accidents and suffered a heart attack in 2002.

"I'm really pleased," said Florence about the turnout at the fund-raiser. "I wish for my husband's health."

"I was nervous to show up," admitted Jones, but he said it was highly significant to see the generous donations from local businesses and to see his co-workers, relatives and other concerned citizens gather together to support him.

"I didn't realize how much people can come together for something like this," said Jones. "I just can't thank people enough."

Chronic myelogenous leukemia is a cancer of the blood that originates in bone barrow and is characterized by an excessive number of white blood cells. 40,000 people are afflicted with this type of cancer a year.

Staff writer Amaris Elliott-Engel can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 282 or at amaris.elliot-engel@lee.net