By Owen Lentner
Nestled in the hallways of Branford High School lies A-14, Ms. Raz’s classroom. Michelle Raszcewski, better known as “Raz”, has been in and out of school for the past couple of weeks attending treatments for breast cancer.
To raise money for Rasczcewski, the BHS community will be holding a concert this Friday.
Raszcewski, who teaches special education, was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma in mid-May of 2024. Over the summer, she attended 16 chemotherapy treatments, four being considered heavy treatments; she finished chemo in October of 2024. In November, she was out on an eight week leave recovering from her surgery: a double mastectomy with reconstruction.
“For the next seven years I will be on medication to keep the cancer from coming back,” Raszcewski said.
During this time, she elapsed all sick paid leave. Now, any time taken off from work goes unpaid. To raise money for Ms. Raz “Because”, a local band, will be playing at BHS.
“Because” is a Beatles tribute band featuring teacher Matthew Perrone. The band has been playing for 15 years; this is their first time playing since COVID-19. They will be playing a variety of Beatles songs at the concert.
“This is our first show back and it’s something that I’ve been trying to do since the pandemic ended,” said Perrone, who is helping to organize the fundraiser.
The show will be held in the BHS Cathyanne Roding Auditorium this Friday, Jan. 10th. The concert begins at 5:30 pm and doors open at 4:45 pm. It is $10 per person at the door. All proceeds go to Ms. Raz.
