On April 16, 2007, Terry Lerud passed away following an eight month battle with lymphoma.  Although losing him has been incredibly difficult for our family, we feel very fortunate to have had him in our lives.  In his memory, our family has established the Terry Lerud Memorial Foundation so that others can experience some of the same happiness he brought into our lives.

The Terry Lerud Memorial Foundation has been a recognized 501(c)(3) federal charity since January 2008.  The purpose of the Foundation is to provide support to local cancer patients and their families.  All monies raised by the Foundation will remain in the Northern Nevada area.  The Foundation is currently working to support the fully accredited Carson Tahoe Cancer Center.  Unfortunately, when the Center opened in November of 2006, the facility budget did not provide for an outdoor terrace and healing garden that was originally called for in the building plans.  In coordination with the Cancer Center, the Terry Lerud Memorial Foundation will be raising funds towards building this outdoor terrace.  The cost of the project is estimated at approximately $125,000.  We hope to have the money raised for the project by the end of 2010.

On July 25, 2009, the Second Annual “Tastevins, Jazz and Libations” fundraiser will be held at Somersett in Northwest Reno.  As with last year, this event will feature area jazz musicians, regional wines, and local microbrews.  This year we are also excited to announce the addition of the Terry Lerud Memorial Golf Tournament which will be held on Somersett’s Canyon Nine Golf Course immediately preceding Tastevins, Jazz and Libations.

We would like to thank everyone who has been so supportive over the last year as we attempt to make the dream of the healing garden become a reality.

Sincerely,
Eva, Alicia and Steven