Fund-Raiser Held for Bend Veterans’ Supporter

Rabbine Harpell found out recently that she has melanoma (cancer) in her breast and needs surgery as soon as possible.

Harpell owns Azura studio in downtown Bend.

After hearing about the diagnosis, salon employees got together to host a “Cut-A-Thon” Sunday afternoon, with the proceeds going to Harpell.

Jayson Mitchell, a hair stylist, says Harpell is like a mom to everyone at the salon.

“I’m doing something for somebody that’s done so much for me in return,” Mitchell said. “You know, we want her to be around for as long as she possibly can be, because shes a mom around here. She just does so much around the community, and we have to give back to her and show her that she means so much.”

Harpell doesn’t have medical insurance, and finding a plastic surgeon is difficult for her.

Harpell is a member of the board for the Youth Challenge of Central Oregon, works with the Disabled Vets of Oregon and also organizes the Bend Veterans Day Parade.