Residents rally for sick child

JACKSON - Area residents are being asked to show their support for a 3-year-old Jackson girl, Colleen Nagy, who suffers from acute myeloid leukemia.

The fundraiser will take place on April 7 from 1-3 p.m. at the White Butterfly, 200 N. County Line Road. Lori Bannach, president of the Moms Club of Jackson East, has joined with Mike Kafton, co-owner of the White Butterfly, to organize an Easter egg hunt at that time.

"When Lori approached us explaining the plight of Colleen, we didn't hesitate for one minute to marshal all our resources and plan this benefit for her," Kafton said. "Our hearts go out to her and her family during these very difficult times.

"We reached out to the community and right away professional clowns Sweetheart and her daughter Macaroni and Cheese volunteered to entertain the kids with face painting and other activities," Kafton said. "Sherry Cela of the Honky Tonk Zoo agreed to bring over her ponies so that the kids can go on rides and pet the animals."

Vinny Rubio, president of the Jackson Optimist Club, said Jackson residents are always there when someone is in trouble. He offered the support of his club in this effort.

"I'm always bowled over by the outpouring of help from everyone in Jackson," Rubio said.

As part of the event, Webkinz will be given away to five lucky youngsters who search out special Easter eggs during the hunt. Webkinz are stuffed animals that have an individualized computer code attached to each animal. Children go to the Webkinz Internet Web site and enter that code which then brings them into an interactive Webkinz universe.

"We are hoping that everyone comes out to the Easter egg hunt and supports Colleen," Kafton said. "It will be a great day and so much fun for the kids and their families. We are not charging for this event, but ask only that people make a donation on Colleen's behalf."

An account to help Colleen has been set up at Commerce Bank and people wishing to donate can make a check out to the Moms Club of Jackson East.

- Dave Benjamin