Bradley County Log A Load held its annual fundraiser Saturday at Immanuel Baptist Church, bringing in a whopping $73,000 to help Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
By Tim Kessler
Saline River Chronicle Contributor
Seth Stephenson, communications coordinator for Arkansas Forestry Association, said this is the 30th year for the statewide organization which has brought in $12.5 million during that time. For the past couple of years, all proceeds from the fundraisers have gone to the Heart Institute component of ACH.
This year, six events are planned in the chapters in Bradley County, Texarkana, South Central and Drew County.
At the Bradley County event, $10,000 of the total came through auctions of three fully loaded log trucks. Also held were gun and chainsaw giveaways and silent, live and dessert auctions with Ronald Alford of Crossett as auctioneer.
Randy Rawls gave the welcome. Megan Flores of ACH also made an appearance.
Karen Rawls told of the experience her family had with ACH after her son, David, was diagnosed with Type I diabetes. His blood sugar level initially hit 451. He received insulin injections and spent three days at the hospital. Every three months, he has to go to an ACH clinic.
Michelle Mendez gave an emotional speech about her daughter, Sophie, 4. “These people have performed countless miracles for our family,” she said.
What started out as acid reflux was diagnosed as a brain tumor. Her daughter had surgery to remove the tumor but ended up spending four months in the hospital while she regained her speech and being able to walk.
“If you don’t believe in God or miracles, just spend some time in a room at Arkansas Children’s Hospital,” Mendez said. “All we ask is that you continue to support causes like this.”
She was given a standing ovation as she concluded her speech.
Eat My Catfish provided a catered meal of catfish and chicken strips.
