TOLEDO, Ohio – The Homeboys Riding Club is organizing a benefit dinner on Saturday, Nov. 7, to help 32‑year‑old Lauren Salis cover the costs of her metastatic breast cancer treatment. The event will take place at Homeboys Bar & Grill on Main Street and promises a taco dinner, a DJ, and raffle baskets for attendees.
Lauren was first diagnosed with breast cancer at age 24 in 2018. After successful treatment, the disease returned in 2024 as stage 4, prompting renewed medical expenses. Her aunt, Shelley Welsh, a breast cancer survivor herself, said, “We tend to have a special bond, not only because she’s just an amazing girl, but because we both have suffered this terrible disease.”
Club’s History of Support
The Homeboys Riding Club first stepped in when Salis was diagnosed eight years ago, and this will be the second benefit the group has organized for her. Club member Tony Ramirez explained, “This is actually our second benefit.” The club was founded 11 years ago by President Chendo Ramirez after he lost his son, a tragedy that taught him the importance of family and brotherhood in overcoming hardship.
“He found that, you know, family and brotherhood were definitely something to help him get through that hard patch,” Tony Ramirez said.
Event Details
Tickets are $20 and include three tacos, rice, beans, a drink, and entry into the raffle. “Be there for anybody. You know, they always say, treat one as you want to be treated,” Ramirez added, urging the community to support the cause.
The benefit reflects the club’s broader mission of raising money for medical bills and funeral expenses for members and their families. “Meet her. Talk to her. She just … she has a big heart. And her spirit is so huge,” Ramirez said of Salis.
How to Attend
Anyone in the Toledo area who wishes to help can purchase tickets at the door on the night of the event. All proceeds will go directly to Salis’ medical expenses, ensuring she can focus on treatment rather than financial strain.
The Homeboys Riding Club’s effort underscores the power of local fellowship and charitable action in supporting those facing serious health challenges.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
