Approximately 100 people attended a March 5 casino night at the Los Gatos Elks Lodge. The fundraiser was sponsored by the Pacific Crest Explorers, a YMCA father-daughter group to which Kaitlyn and her father, Brad Langstaff, belonged. Funds from admission, raffle tickets, game chip purchases and outright donations will be given to Brad and his wife, Kerry, to help pay for medical and funeral expenses resulting from their 9-year-old daughter's battle with an adverse drug reaction. Kaitlyn passed away Dec. 17.

Explorers member Mark Pasos said the Langstaffs were very appreciative of the turnout and monetary donations.

"They were overwhelmed," he said. "We actually haven't given them the check yet—donations are still floating in."

The Langstaffs attended the event, and Brad said he was touched by the response from friends, neighbors and other supporters.

"I am not surprised, but I am amazed," he said. "I knew it was a good community, but when everybody helps out like that it's amazing."

While Kerry runs a consulting business out of their home, Brad said he has been unemployed for two years. He was Kaitlyn's primary caregiver throughout her illness, but will likely be returning to work soon. He said his family's medical and funeral expenses were "substantial," and that the donations would be helpful in repaying them.

Though the reason for the fundraiser was unfortunate, Langstaff said it was a nice change of pace after Kaitlyn's funeral and memorial services.

In addition to standard casino-style games, Pasos said guests also partook in karaoke. Some attendees walked away with raffle prizes such as San Jose Sharks tickets, a football autographed by Oakland Raider Jerry Rice and a San Francisco dinner and hotel package.

"I think it went better than I expected," Pasos said. "Everybody had a great time."

Langstaff agreed.

"It was an upbeat event," he said. "My wife sang karaoke, but I sure didn't."