By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

More than 500 people danced and twirled to polka favorites at the fourth annual Harold Dorzweiler Cancer Memorial Fundraiser Saturday and another 500 people are expected to attend as the event continues Sunday at the Ellis County Fairgrounds.

The memorial fundraiser was started in 2010 in memory of Harold Dorzweiler, who died of cancer, to help cancer patients travel to their appointments — an idea that came to Dorzweiler when he was traveling to his own cancer treatments in Kansas City. Harold’s widow, Janie Dorzweiler, said Harold witnessed young families who could barely afford the fuel to drive to their appointments.

“When Harold was alive, he was just a very giving person,” Janie said. “I don’t know how to put it. I used to be so shy and quiet and, when he passed away, it was like he gave me this inspiration and I’m doing what  he was still doing. I am just so proud to make him proud.”

Harold’s father, Leo Dorzweiler, said the fund has already helped 70 families.

“We could help more … they just have to know about it,” Leo said, noting the recipients do not have to live in Ellis County.

An application for financial assistance can be found at the website www.germancapitalofkansas.com, or call (785) 625-5256 for more information.

Leo said he expects this year’s fundraiser to raise around $20,000 for the memorial fund.

On Sunday, there will be a Polka mass at 10:30 a.m., and the dancing will continue until 6 p.m.