A white basket with heart cutouts holds gift items and sits on a bar counter. Signs promote The Bee Foundations fundraiser, Spread the Love in Memory of Brittany McCarthy, with raffle and ticket info displayed.

Spread The Love In Memory of Brittany McCarthy

A wooden-framed mirror at Canton’s Restaurant with green lettering reading FINE FOOD & DRINK. The shelf displays awards, glass salt and pepper shakers, and a framed photo of a young woman.In October of 2021, the world changed in an instant when we tragically lost Brittany McCarthy, a beautiful, vibrant soul at just 21 years old.

A ruptured brain aneurysm took her from us far too soon. She loved deeply, laughed freely, and gave endlessly. Whether you knew her for years or only crossed oaths with her briefly, you felt her warmth. 

Each year, Canlon’s Restaurant, where Brittany once worked, honors her life with a heartfelt fundraiser. Friends, family, coworkers, and community members gather not only to celebrate who Brittany was, but to raise awareness and funds in hopes of preventing other families from experiencing the same loss. 

The highlight of every year’s event is the “Basket of Love,” a beautiful reflection of the generosity surrounding Brittany’s memory. 

A white gift basket with heart decorations, filled with pink and white items, sits on a table. Two flyers promoting a raffle surround it. In the background, a display case holds many collectible figurines.This year’s basket included:

  • $100 visa gift card
  • $100 gift card to Lorenzo’s Restaurant
  • $100 to Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club
  • $50 gift certificate to Bario’s
  • $50 gift certificate to Campania
  • $50 gift certificate to TJ Max, Homegoods, or Marshalls
  • And many other thoughtful gifts!

Because of the incredible support from the community, this year’s SPREAD THE LOVE event on February 12th 2026, raised $1,265! But beyond the number is something even more meaningful: people showing up. People remembering; People caring; People honoring Brittany. 

Thank you to everyone who came out & supported this event. Your generosity keeps Brittany’s light shining and funds research that could save lives and prevent other families from enduring such a devastating loss.