Benefit to help pay for stem-cell transplant

VILLA GROVE A benefit dinner to help with upcoming expenses for a stem cell transplant for Tom Ryan of Villa Grove will be held from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Villa Grove United Methodist Church, 302 Second St., Villa Grove.

Ryan, who was born with a rare, inherited immunodeficiency disorder called WHIM syndrome, is facing cancer for a fifth time and will be undergoing a stem cell transplant in Chicago or Maryland.

Ryan will have to live in the area where the transplant is being done for several months, and the money is being raised to help cover medical bills, transportation costs and living expenses for him and his wife, Staci.

The benefit will include a fried chicken dinner prepared by Betty Hancock, a silent auction, a "Hammering out Cancer" T-shirt sale and music.

The dinner will include fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, coleslaw, drinks and dessert.

Admission will be a free-will donation.

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Benefit to help pay for stem-cell transplant