It’s amazing what a little bit of home cooking can do.
The Haunt for Hirschsprung group experienced a successful night Friday evening for their chili supper. Theresa Laffery, one of the event’s organizers, said they quadrupled their investment for the chili, and eventually sold out — making it their “single most financially beneficial event to date.”
“The real story is that we have tripled awareness for Hirschsprungs,” she said.
The rare disease affects the digestive system and has been under the radar for most. Brian and Lindsey Shaughnessy, along with Andrew and Theresa Laffery, have been organizing events for the Giving Hope Program. The Shaughnessy’s daughter, Maya, has had the disease since age six. The non-profit organization focuses on new research to combat the disease. All of the proceeds from Friday’s chili supper will go to benefit either Giving Hope or the Haunting for Hirschsprung event in October, which also will benefit Giving Hope.
Not all of the support was monetary, however. Laffery said during the event a truck driver heard an advertisement on the radio, and as someone with Hirschsprung’s, he decided to stop by. Two more children — one local and one from Girard — were brought to the attention of the group, and they intend to do everything they can to help them in their battle with the disease.
“We feel great about the evening and consider it a total success,” Laffery said.
The chili supper was sponsored by 97.7 The Dawg, O’Shaughnessy Liquor, Bronson Locker, Shaughnessy Construction, A&B Cleaning Supply and Sam & Louie’s. The Elks contributed space for the event Friday and T-N-T DJ service provided the music.
The next fundraiser is scheduled for May 10 at the National Guard Armory in Iola. There will be all-you-can-eat pancakes and a raffle.
Benefit a big success
