Raiders host breast cancer survivors for a creative experience

OAKLAND, Calif. (KTVU) - The Oakland Raiders invited 15 breast cancer survivors to their Alameda facility on Monday to partake in an evening dedicated to relaxation through artistic exploration and creative fun.

Including guests, 31 people toured the facility, ate dinner in the team’s meal room and were treated to a unique art experience. An instructor from Pinot’s Pallete guided the group as the guests joined players in crafting breast cancer ribbons.

“They get to just forget about the disease for an evening and have fun,” said Vita Sarginson, Director of Corporate Relations for the American Cancer Society.

The bunch smiled and danced to music as they dressed canvasses with variations of ribbons layered on a silver and black backdrop.

“It’s really amazing to have sports and the Raiders behind us the way that they are,” said Dana Stevens, a survivor. “It really means so much to our breast cancer survivors and myself.”

When a woman questioned the scale for judging quality, placekicker Giorgio Tavecchio offered some comfort coupled with chuckling.

“I think it’s all in the eye of the beholder,” Travecchio said, as the woman laughed and continued her brush strokes.

Shortly after the groups joined, Raiders players presented the American Cancer Society with a $5,000 check to be used for breast cancer awareness.

Seven players attended the event. The group included: LB Bruce Irvin, S Karl Joseph, S Shalom Luani, S Obi Melifonwu, S Reggie Nelson, K Giorgio Tavecchio and LB Xavier Woodson-Luster

“I never was big into painting, but this was fun,” said Raiders Safety Karl Joseph. “It’s such a great opportunity to be with these survivors, with people from different backgrounds.”