Dedication, commitment, and lifelong love–the Kosmach family embodies it all. Since 1995, they have poured their hearts into fundraising for scleroderma research in memory of their beloved mother, Joan Kosmach.
This year in March, their annual “Bet on a Cure” fundraiser celebrates an incredible achievement: 30 years of supporting scleroderma research! Since holding their first event in 1995, the family has collectively raised over $600,000 to date.
The Kosmach siblings have poured their passion into 30 years of fundraising for scleroderma research. Now, they are sharing their journey in their own words:
When our mother passed away due to complications of diffuse systemic scleroderma, our family had never heard of scleroderma. Conversations started with our father, William Kosmach, and our family with a desire to begin fundraising for research to find a cure for scleroderma.
Joni said, “Mom was an avid bowler and league secretary for many years. Why don’t we host a bowling event?” Two months later, the family held our first “Strike Out Scleroderma” candlelight bowling event at Lombard Lanes where our mom bowled.
Here is just a small glimpse back at our many years of fundraising to help find a scleroderma cure:
- 1995 – 2013: Candlelight Bowling and Casino Nights were hosted in Lombard and Carol Stream, Illinois.
- 2001– 2008: Scare Out Scleroderma and Steer toward a Cure events were held in Texas.
- 2010 – present: Texas events continue with “Bet on a Cure”. These fun evenings include casino games, food, raffles, silent auctions and fun.
- 2015: Candlelight Bowling event was held in Massachusetts.
- 2019: “Fright Night” was held in Fall River, Massachusetts. It was a thrilling experience including learning about paranormal equipment, ghost hunts and an overnight stay at the Lizzie Borden House.
And now, you can be a part of our celebration! Join us by registering to attend our two upcoming fundraising events: Bet on a Cure on March 1, 2025, at 7 PM at the Butler House in Spring Texas, and “Scare Out Scleroderma” on May 31, 2025 at the Crosby Mansion in Brewster, Massachusetts.
To support the “Bet on a Cure” in Texas, you can buy a ticket to attend, purchase a raffle ticket or make a donation. 100% of event proceeds will directly support the Scleroderma Research Foundation and its vital research programs.
Details for “Scare Out Scleroderma” event to follow.
The Kosmach Cure Crew events in 2025 mark a heartfelt milestone, honoring our mother’s legacy and the incredible impact we’ve made towards scleroderma research over the years. While we also remember our beloved sister, Sandra, who passed away from cancer last June, we celebrate the strength and unity of our family. We will continue our fundraising and awareness efforts with steadfast hope and determination in honor of our mother, dad and sister until a cure for scleroderma is found.
We are truly grateful to the Kosmach family for their many years of unwavering support of the Scleroderma Research Foundation. Their dedication inspires all of us here, and they have been truly invaluable to advancing the most promising research into scleroderma. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, so much.
