Fundraising fest planned for lifesaving transplant

Jenna Stothard, who was diagnosed with kidney disease when she was two years old, has been battling the disease for the past 18 years of her life. Now 20, she awaits a small bowel and kidney transplant at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. But the operation is expensive and insurance simply doesn't cover all the costs inherent with a transplant, so her friends and family are planning Jenna Fest 2 in her honor.

The family friendly fundraiser promises something for everyone, Kristine Miller Blazak said. Blazak, a family friend, is the fundraising campaign coordinator for the event. "All of the proceeds from the fundraising event will go toward transplant related expenses for Jenna's lifetime," Blazak said. "We need to raise $65,000."

To date, more than $13,000 has been raised. The fundraiser this year will also be a tribute to Jenna's father, Mark Stothard, who died unexpectedly at the age of 54 in August 2004. Mark Stothard, who grew up in Hilton, was remembered as a talented artist and musician. His parents are well known Hilton residents Eleanor and Lavergne (Shorty) Stothard, proprietor of Stothard's Hardware, festival organizer Kim Lowden said.

"Jenna and her mother, Barbara (Ryan) are in Pittsburgh where Jenna is undergoing tests to determine if she will also need a liver and pancreas transplant due to damage sustained from long-term IV nutrition," Lowden said. "They will remain there for the transplant surgery and recovery period."

Until recently, Jenna, an Albion native, had been a student at Finger Lakes Community College.

The Jenna Fest 2 fundraiser will feature live music, a silent auction, prize give-aways, games and food. Bands featured include: Brett Lowden's Aces & Eights; Blue Thunder; Hunu?; and The Swamp Padres.

"One hundred percent of the money raised will go toward the transplant," Lowden said. The money is administered by the Children's Organ Transplant Association -- a group that doesn't take any of the money for administrative costs.

The event will take place at the Hilton Fireman's Exempt Club, South Avenue on Sunday, November 14 from 2 to 9 p.m. An admission fee of $6 per adult; $10 per couple; $4 for children under 12; or a maximum of $20 per family will be collected.

Information can also be found at www.geocities.com/jenastothard/JennasUpdate.html