Jayce meets Hanna

Jayce Wayne Wofford came with his parents Ethan and Carrie, to a benefit that many who started planning this event a month ago didn’t think he would be able to attend.

Jayce was born Oct. 5 at 2 pounds 15 ounces at Denver’s Childrens Hospital and it was thought he would not be leaving the medical center until late January. Jayce surprised everyone by beating the odds and is now over six pounds.

He still has to breathe oxygen through a tube because his lungs still need help since he was born prematurely.

Organizers of the benefit reached out to many businesses in Carbon County for help and many contributed.

Rose Vaughn, Hanna resident, who has been involved with three fund raising events for children with medical issues, said residents Sandy Martin and Sandy Combs reached out to businesses in the towns of Rawlins and Rock River and found many willing to contribute items for the different auctions.

Edy Wickard approached Saratoga businesses and also had excellent success in contributions. Restaurants Bellas, Firewater and Hotel Wolf offered certificates for dinner for bid. Shively’s and Saratoga Lumber and Supply were also businesses that donated items for auction.

Local Hanna merchants Manly Store and Hanna Hometown Market gave items along with residents that made gift baskets that centered on Christmas and baked goods. Martin donated a carved table and Kyle Warren, a local photographer, gave a framed picture of a grizzly bear for the silent auction.

The First Baptist Church Benefit Committee supplied dinner to help raise funds, serving over 75 dinners.

There were over 50 items donated and combined with dinner sales, the benefit raised $3,200.

Vaughn said the Wollford family had not expected the outpouring of support the benefit brought forth and were grateful to all that participated and helped.

Carbon County once again showed its residents and businesses are there to help those in need.