TOP STORY OF THE DAY, brought to you free by WICU: Roberts thankful for support at benefit

Monday, May 3, 2021
Stacy Roberts’ family gathered around her during the American Legion Post #2 fundraising benefit Saturday, April 24. The event was raising money to help the family pay for medical bills. Pictured with Stacy (in the middle) are surrounded by her daughters in front — Danika and Alexis — mother-in-law Marcia Mendenhall, husband Daniel Roberts holding daughter Ryleah, and her mother, Shelia Higginbotham.
Ivy Jacobs photo

The community gathered to support a local family in need during the American Legion Post #2 Stacy Roberts Benefit Bike and Jeep Ride Saturday, April 24.

“I am so overwhelmed at the generosity of this community. We can’t appreciate it enough,” said an emotional Roberts among the hustle and bustle of people enjoying the event despite the gloomy weather. “I’ve had four surgeries since October 5, 2020.”

In 2019, Stacy was diagnosed with Chiari malformation, a structural defect in the brain’s cerebellum, responsible for controlling balance.

The severe nature of the condition paralyzed Stacy, a working mother of three young daughters and wife to Daniel.

The family has struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic while seeking medical treatment, unemployment, and medical bills.

Pamela Fischer has worked closely with American Legion members Garry Miller and Ashley Sabin to create the fundraiser for her friend and family.

“This is a past Launch Academy family, and Stacy is suffering significant health issues,” said Fischer, who was grateful for everyone who donated and helped organize the event. “Once a Launcher, always a Launcher. I never forget any of them or their precious children.”

Brazil Mayor Brian Wyndham watches as volunteers prepare for the auction during the American Legion Post #2 Stacy Roberts Benefit Bike and Jeep Ride Saturday, April 24.
Ivy Jacobs photo

Due to dire weather forecasts, the Bike and Jeep Ride portion of the event was postponed but could still raise more than $6,700 for the family.

“Don’t want to take any chances with motorcycles in the rain or bad weather along the route,” said Garry Miller, Sons of the American Legion. “It wasn’t canceled, just postponed till later this year.”

Miller said the post would continue to take donations to help support Stacy Roberts and her family.

“Just stop by anytime we are open and let us know you are donating for Stacy,” said Miller. “We will get it to her.”

There were 80 pounds of pulled BBQ pork for dinner during the American Legion Post #2 Stacy Roberts Benefit Bike and Jeep Ride Saturday, April 24. Due to dire weather forecasts, the Bike and Jeep Ride was postponed for this event. A new date has yet to be determined.
Ivy Jacobs photo
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