From Lori Sorenson:

Stand Up for Ken

He Needs YOUR Help!

Here is a brief update on our “Comic Dude”. Ken is now back in Minnesota at St. Mary’s in Rochester for rehab. It is hard for Ken as he is really not able to do a lot for himself yet. They are teaching him to try and feed himself and brush his teeth. He is riding around in a motorized chair (he could use a few driving lessons though!). After rehab Ken will be going to assisted living. Ken is also an avid bowler, umpire and loves to play poker. Those of us who know Ken know of his sense of humor and spirit and love for life. He loves to sing and make people laugh.

Ken is now paralyzed from the chest down. He does have some sensation in his legs but the sensations move around. He can move his arms but has no use of his hands. The prognosis is that Ken’s chances of ever walking again are not great. But Ken is a “battler” and along with some help and support from us, he will fight this battle.

Obviously, Ken will face great financial issues in the future. Aside from astronomical hospital bills, down the road, there will be income issues for a long time, as employment potential will certainly be very questionable.

This tragic event has certainly changed Ken’s life in many ways. Therefore, we are planning a couple different fundraisers at this time to help Ken and his family. The first one is Saturday August 29th at the Farmington American Legion. This event will include a Silent Auction, Beer Bash and Sandwiches and music by Chopper. The second event will be Saturday Sept 12th at the Owatonna Knights of Columbus. This will include a Spaghetti Dinner, Silent Auction and Bake Sale.

Here’s how you can help us affect the future of Ken. Please consider contributing a gift basket or other auction items to one or both of the silent auctions. Some ideas that have sold well at past auctions include:

* Gardening, Movie Night, Arts & Crafts, Scrapbooking
* Coffee Time, Spa and Relaxation, Wine and Cheese, Sports Basket
* Breakfast Basket, Italian, Birthday Party, Book Basket, Afghans, vacations/trips
* Pet Basket, Baby, Night on the Town, School Basket, Game Night, Car Care Basket

The baskets will be used to raise money for the sole purpose and benefit of Ken. Your help and generosity can make these benefits a success and make a significant impact on this very special man that has put a smile on so many faces throughout the country and beyond. Please help give Ken an opportunity to meet the many challenges facing him today and in the years ahead. Your donation can truly make a difference in the life of this man who has made such a difference in so many lives. We sincerely thank you for you consideration.

Donations can be sent to:

Dave Vierling
14725 Portland Ave S #311
Burnsville, MN 55306

We will also be available to pick-up donations. Please call 952-236-7835 or email vierlingd@yahoo.com with any questions or to schedule a pick-up.

Hope to see you all at one or both of the benefits.
Thank you for your consideration on making these events a success for Ken!

God Bless You All,
Dave & Lori

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 7th, 2009 at 5:04 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.