CLARKS SUMMIT - Over the last several months, Ted Pietryka has worn his fair share of hospital gowns and sweatpants.
So he didn't mind dressing up Sunday evening, especially if it meant he got to see his friends.
"It's been a rough couple months," said Mr. Pietryka, 40, of Clarks Summit, who, in August, was diagnosed with Stage 3 lung and throat cancer. "These events make everything so much better. It's a break in all the craziness and feeling bad."
Donning a striped, button- down shirt and khaki pants, Mr. Pietryka shared laughs, smiles and tears with the hundreds who gathered at the State Street Grill on Sunday for Together for Ted.
Organized by Tom Hill, the owner of the restaurant and a friend of Ted since their high school days, the fundraiser featured a silent auction, open bar, live entertainment and plenty of food, with all proceeds going to Mr. Pietryka's family.
But most important, it provided Mr. Pietryka with something invaluable, Mr. Hill said: support.
"The number of people that have shown up is incredible," said Mr. Hill, as he scanned the area, looking at the estimated 350 people packed into the restaurant and its front porch. "It's more than I could have imagined. But it just shows the type of guy Ted is and how many people care about him."
With his arms wrapped around his father's leg, 10-year-old Gabe wouldn't let Mr. Pietryka leave his sight.
He and his brothers, Garrett, 8, and Teddy, 4, have gone through a whirlwind of emotions in the past couple of months, even if they don't completely understand the disease their father is battling.
"It's great to see him so happy with all his friends," Gabe said. "I can tell he is having a lot of fun, which he deserves."
Contact the writer: miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter