Thai Siam's 19th Anniversary Benefit Dinner on August 20 raised $19,200 for the Union Gospel Mission, Cancer Lifeline and the Foundation of the Blind in Thailand.

Between 600 to 700 people attended the event. Some were cancer patients and staff from Cancer Lifeline, others were from the Union Gospel Mission.

Thai Siam's customers paid $18 to support the effort and sample from a buffet menu with 11 items. The menu included Heavenly Chicken, Thai Siam Special Hot Beef, Phad Thai, Rama Garden, Special Won Ton, Mee Krob-a fried crispy noodle in sweet and sour sauce, Special Green Beans, Chicken Salad, Vegetable Curry, Steamed Broccoli and more. Traditional Thai musicians and dancers provided entertainment.

"People enjoyed it with the live music and dancing. A lot of old customers who moved away, they came back. They come back every chance they get. When they come to town they stop by," said Thai Siam owner Vhanthip (Nancy) Bhokayasupatt.

She started the fundraiser in 1988 when a total of $1,109 was raised. Each year since then the total has gone up. Overall, $150,000 has been raised during the history of the dinner.

The Foundation of the Blind in Thailand has received support from the fundraiser in the past. "For over sixty years it has assisted blind and low vision people by providing them with equal opportunities and education, allowing them a chance to live their lives as independent and contributing members of society," said Bhokayasupatt.

She supports Cancer Lifeline because it has unique services that support cancer patients, their families, friends, caregivers, free of charge for over thirty years.

Bhokayasupatt is a cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with cancer in August 2001. Fortunately the disease was in its early stages and after a year off for treatment and rest, she returned in good health.

Customers greeted Bhokayasupatt warmly when she came back. Many have patronized the Crown Hill restaurant since it opened.

Bhokayasupatt was a sociology student at the University of Washington when she started cooking Thai food for her friends. They liked her meals and suggested that she open her own restaurant.

In 1988 Bhokayasupatt wanted to thank her customers for their support and thought about holding a raffle with a trip as a prize. She decided that would only help two people. The idea of giving to a worthy cause came next. Bhokayasupatt has chosen groups like the Children's Hospital Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation, the North Seattle Boys and Girls Club, the American Red Cross, and the Marsha Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research for the benefit's proceeds.

The restaurant is located at 8305 15th Ave. N.W.