Gamma Phi flies for sister

The Gamma Phi Beta sorority hosted the first Gamma Fly philanthropic event on Driscoll Lawn last Friday.

The fundraiser honored Tessa Schmitz, a Gamma Phi member who was diagnosed with sarcoma on her foot.

“We decided to hit closer to home [this time],” said sophomore Jessica Rose, co-chair of Gamma Phi Beta philanthropy.

It is not yet known how much was raised from the event or the proceeds from the costs of the rides.

Following bid day theme “Fly Gamma Phi,” the event included three hours of activities with inflatable games provided by the local company Fun Productions and grilled food donated by the DU Grilling Society.

“[Gamma Fly] shows how strong our sisterly bond is,” said Morgan Mendel, a freshman Gamma Phi. “In sororities, philanthropy is part of the reason you join.”

By Schmitz’s request, the funds will benefit the Karen Wyckoff Rein in Sarcoma Foundation, which raises awareness about sarcoma cancers and lessening the possibility for misdiagnoses.

“It’s nice to feel [like] we’re doing something for [Tessa],” said Claudia Temmer, co-chair of  philanthropy who worked with Rose to manage this event. Last year, the duo organized the university-wide spaghetti dinner, called the Spagammi, to benefit the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Schmitz, a sophomore who will return to DU next quarter, was unable to attend the event in her honor.

Sorority members signed a card to send to Schmitz. One message read, “We have missed your beautiful smile around the house this year! We can’t wait for you to come back!”

According to the Karen Wyckoff Rein in Sarcoma Foundation Web site, sarcoma cancer afflicts roughly 9,500 new Americans per year. Sarcomas can originate anywhere in the body and do not develop a typical set of symptoms in patients. Though sarcomas account for less than 2 percent of adult cancers, they rank in the top five of the most commonly diagnosed cancers afflicting children.