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Friends, family and customers came together Sunday afternoon at Stan’s Idle Hour Restaurant for a benefit for longtime Marco Island resident Bert Brewer. Brewer was diagnosed with cancer in June of 2006.

According to Jann, Brewer’s wife, Bert has had many operations. He has also undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Bert has also had to battle radiation damage. Bert’s initial efforts paid off as he was cancer free until March, when he was told it returned. Bert will undergo chemotherapy treatments for the next six months.

The benefit was the Brainchild of Johnny Angel. According to Jann, the event started out with Mel and Cathy Slavik wanting to donate a gift basket. Jann said they had not planned on an auction, but people kept dropping things off and the event just mushroomed and took on a life of it’s on.

The generosity of this island community was once again on display as over 35 area business donated auction items. Items were still being donated as the auction got under way. The crowd was energetic and willing to bid on each.

“The outpouring of love and support was very humbling and overwhelming,” Jann said.

The Brewer’s opened Marco Fitness Club in 1981. Bert has been very active in many organizations on Marco Island.

“The event was also a great way for Bert to spend time with friends and family before he starts his chemotherapy on Monday,” Jann said. His first stop once he arrived at the event was to stop by the stage to say hello to long time friend Stan Gober who was warming the crowd up. Bert then spent time with each person there to support him.

The amount of money raised was not available at press time. However, Jann said “Everyone was very generous, it was overwhelming, I am speechless and very humbled by the outpouring of love and support, it was a tremendous feeling.”

A special fund has been set up at Marco Island branch of Royal Palm Bank. The name of the fund is Brewers Boosters.