‘Dribble for Krissy’ Fundraiser in Huntington Beach

Krissy Kobata

HUNTINGTON BEACH — “Dribble for Krissy,” a basketball skills clinic and barbecue, will be held as a fundraiser for Krissy Kobata on Sunday, Nov. 19, at Ocean View High School, 17071 Gothard St. in Huntington Beach.

Six skills clinics hosted by James Real Estate and Ironmen Basketball will be held from 2:30 to 4 pm. for Grades K-5 and 4 to 5:30 p.m. for Grades 6-12. The cost is $10 per player; bring your own ball.

A world-class barbecue will be prepared by OCO’s (Orange Coast Optimist) The Crew.

Kobata, a Los Angeles resident, was diagnosed in 2008 with myelodysplastic syndrome, a disease that destroys the body’s ability to make new blood cells and often develops into acute leukemia. The possible cure is a bone marrow transplant.

On June 30, Kobata received an update after a bone marrow biopsy that her levels are low and she is running out of time to wait for a match.

Years ago, there was a 9-of-10 match. The City of Hope just contacted the anonymous donor and she said yes to the transplant. Now the donor will have a screening to confirm that she is healthy and a good candidate for the operation.

Praying that all goes well, Kobata will begin preparing for the transplant the day after Thanksgiving. After the transplant, she will be hospitalized for a minimum of six to seven weeks, and more special care will be needed when she is back home.

“Krissy is strong, willful, independent and a fighter,” event organizers said. “The funds that you will graciously be providing will help give her financial support during her recovery. Please help get Krissy back to enjoying the life she loves with family and friends.”

For more information on the fundraiser, email ironmenbasketballtraining@gmail.com or visit www.ironmenbasketball.com. For more information on Kobata, visit www.teamkrissy.com.