AUBURN - When the community came out to support 25-year-old Luke Godfrey during a benefit held in his honor Sunday afternoon, it was standing room only as people searched for empty spaces along the walls of the Ukrainian National Club to find a place to eat.

Michelle Farrell, Godfrey's mother-in-law, said it was touching to see more than 600 people coming out to support Godfrey as he undergoes treatment for Sarcoma, a cancer found in the soft tissue of his neck. Godfrey was diagnosed with the cancer nearly four months after he married Jamie Holmes on Sept. 5.

“It's been hard with the emotional ups and downs,” Farrell said. “I think its great support to see so many people that are here that care about (Godfrey) and want to support him.”

With Godfrey unable to work as he undergoes multiple surgeries and chemotherapy at the Philadelphia Cancer Center, sister-in-law Kristin Holmes said all the money spent on the event's 50-50 raffle, auctions and door prizes will go to defray his medical, travel and living expenses.

“It's great just to know that so many people are willing to give and care about him this much,” Holmes said. “The community has been great.”

Auburn residents Bill Gorman and Jessica Spahn said they wanted to come out and support a man who has been their friend for nearly 15 years.

Described as a caring man who is willing to help anyone at anytime, Spahn said it was not surprising to see so many people coming out to support Godfrey because he has touched so many people throughout his life.

“Luke's been a great person and a great guy, and he and his family have really touched a lot of people,” Spahn said. “We love him and we want him to know we are here for him.”

Having undergone his most recent surgery last week, Gorman said the treatment has taken an obvious toll on Godfrey as he had to leave the benefit within the first couple of hours in order to go home and rest.

“He's obviously hurting; he just had surgery a week ago,” Gorman said. “But hopefully he will pull through.”

With so many people like Gorman and Spahn coming out to show how Godfrey has touched their lives, Farrell said she was overwhelmed by the support.

“We really want to thank everybody for coming and volunteering, it's very much appreciated,” Farrell said.

Staff writer Nate Robson can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 248 or nathan.robson@lee.net

How to help

Anyone wishing to make a contribution to Luke Godfrey's medical fund can mail a check to the “Luke Godfrey Benefit Fund,” PO Box 192, Weedsport, NY 13166.