BANGOR – Angela Conrad was just 13 when her mother died of cancer.

Now a grown woman who volunteers in the community, Conrad wanted to do something special in memory of her mother that would help continue the fight against cancer.

The result is an evening and auction, “Bid Against Cancer,” being planned for 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Sea Dog Brewing Co.

“Every dollar raised will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society,” Conrad said. “We expect the bidding to be spirited, and everyone will have a good time contributing to a worthy cause.”

Local businesses and organizations have really stepped up to contribute items for auction, Conrad said Tuesday.

“Some additional contributors include Webber Energy, [which] donated 150 gallons of home heating oil; the Muddy Rudder, gift certificates for dinners; and there is a variety of homemade jewelry,” Conrad said.

“There also will be a variety of homemade specialty deserts that will surely be big hits. Another item we’re excited about is a package with a family portrait being taken, and a gift certificate for framing,” she said.

Businesses such as the Maine Center for the Arts and Ski Rack Sports already have donated items for the silent auction. Other businesses contributing to the auction include Thistle’s Restaurant, Back Door Dance Studio, Aubuchon Hardware and Bella Luna.

The list of auction items includes greens fees to area golf courses, home improvement products and a five-night stay in downtown Charleston, S.C.

More information is available by visiting: www.bidagainstcancer.com.

“Also, if people are unable to attend, they can donate securely online through the Web site – we are currently at 40 percent of our $500 goal.

“Our doors are open to all who want to come and there will be a $5 cover at the door,” she said.

Conrad has been overwhelmed by the response from businesses and families determined to do what they can to fight the disease, but emphasized that there is still an opportunity for making contributions.

Businesses still have time to contribute anything biddable such as clothing, furniture, a dinner for two, a home-cleaning service or fuel oil.

Every year, more than 135,000 Americans are diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma or some other form of blood cancer, with many of those diagnosed being children.

The mission of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

Bid Against Cancer is open to the public. The auction is a chance, Conrad said, “to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to promote research, provide support to families in need and perhaps save someone else’s mother or loved one.”

For more information, call Conrad at 991-8702, e-mail angelaconcrad@hotmail.com or visit bidagainstcancer.com