This past Saturday evening, a fundraiser was held at the Dante Club to help Amanda DaSilva, a long-time resident of Methuen and a former resident of Somerville. Amanda is battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia and as a single mother to her son Michael, her family and friends wanted to have a fundraiser to help her out with medical and other various bills in her time of need.

Having graduated from Somerville High in 1986, Amanda still has many friends who still live in the area, as evidenced by the strong turnout of over 160 people who attended – and helped raise almost $14,000 in one night. A large portion of those people being comprised of the SHS Class of 1986.

Amanda’s two sisters Sandra Harris (Amanda’s twin) and Wanda Foley organized the event with the help of many selfless people. Sandra, Wanda and their parents – father, Amilcar DaSilva, and mother, Fanny Montes – along with the rest of their extended family – want to thank everyone who donated raffle prizes, volunteered to help and donated food for the event.

Amanda’s fight is far from over – if you wish to help – you can go online to: https://www.gofundme.com/keepinghopeforA