FRIENDS MARK 15TH ANNIVERSARY LEE WOULD BE PROUD Published: Sunday, February 20, 1994 Section: COMMENTARY , page C4 Type of story: Editorial © 1994 Landmark Communications Inc. Lee Harkins was only 16 when her remarkable courage, humor and determination to enjoy life while facing death won the admiration of those who knew her. After the Norfolk teenager died, nine of her admirers formed Lee's Friends to provide comfort and care for others fighting cancer. That was 15 years ago, and members of Lee's Friends have plenty to celebrate as they mark their anniversary March 1. More than 1,000 volunteers have given of their time, providing emotional and practical support to 2,250 cancer patients and their families. The volunteers assist with paperwork, visit hospitals and homes, provide rides and are trained to help patients cope with crises. An endowment fund has grown to about $1 million, with nearly all the revenue going to help people in South Hampton Roads deal with cancer. Less than 9 percent of the budget is spent on administration and fund raising. Lee's Friends has provided more than $350,000 in free services annually. More than 2,500 calls (625-3115) are handled each year. An after-hours telephone message tells callers: ``Our volunteers care about you. You are good stuff.'' Lee Harkins would be proud of her friends.

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