Each year, the Brandywine Lady Cats host a celebration at the end of their season to help raise money for the next year. This year, the basketball team has opted to donate the proceeds from the event to a cause near and dear to their hearts.

Not too long ago, Diane Smith, a basketball coach, volunteer, mother and soon-to-be-grandmother was diagnosed with stage-two lymphoma.

On Saturday night, the Brandywine girls basketball team will celebrate not only a great season, but also their dedicated coach.

“We thought this year instead of doing a fundraiser for the team, why not do a fundraiser for a great person?” said Coach Josh Hood. “She’s done so much for our community, and now it’s our turn to give back.

The party will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight on April 12 at the Niles Elks Lodge, and will feature dinner, a cash bar, 50/50 and raffle baskets and DJ Scott Zavitz.

“Diane is an integral part of our program as a coach, a volunteer, all of the above. She deserves all the help she can get,” Hood said.

Tickets are $15 at the door. Hood said he believes event will draw a very large crowd.

“Diane’s doing well. She’s such a strong person, and she’s been doing chemo and radiation. When you talk to her, her spirits are always high. She’s a trooper,” Hood said. “Everyone who knows Diane knows she’s a fighter, and we know she’ll beat it.”