Red Robins assist a Hodag in need
By Star Journal staff
Let it never be said that sports rivalry and compassion are mutually exclusive.
After learning of a Rhinelander 8th grade football player who is in need of a liver transplant, the Antigo Middle School boys basketball team took on the challenge of a fundraiser for Bobby Towne.
“We read about Bobby on Saturday, and it just so happened that we were playing Rhinelander the following Thursday at our middle school,” said Julie Dobrinska, one of the adult organizers. “Together with a co-worker and our assistant principal we came up with the idea of hosting a bake sale and concession stand in the hopes of raising a few dollars for Bobby and his family.”
An initial goal of $200 was set. Dobrinska emailed James Williams Middle School in Rhinelander and the staff at the Antigo Middle School to let them know of their plans.
“From there, things really took off. The staff at the middle school donated baked goods for the sale – we also had a donation jar in the office,” Dobrinska recalled. “Before the basketball game even started, we had over $140 in donations. Everyone was incredibly generous. Parents and students from both schools were buying concessions and baked goods and then donating their change on top of that.”
By the end of the night, their efforts amounted to a whopping $500.
The 13-year old Towne was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease in August and will need a liver transplant. His family members are undergoing tests to determine whether they can donate part of their liver to Bobby.
Leave a reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.