A group of local residents is rallying around a friend and family member to raise money to help them through a personal battle.

The fundraiser for Jessica Jolly will be held this Saturday, Jan. 20, at the Knights of Columbus beginning at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. The evening will feature a smoked pork chop dinner and live music. There will be a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction that will include items such as meals, coupons, quilts and handmade baskets. 

Jolly was born and raised in Mexico and is a 1999 graduate of Mexico High School. Jolly was born with a genetic condition that affects her entire body including her intestines. Jolly is in need of liver and small intestine transplants. Jolly, along with her mother, Mary Lou, will be traveling to the Cleveland Clinic for treatment. The stay could be between six and 12 months. The family needs as much help as it can get for uncovered medical expenses and travel. 

One of the organizers of the event, Susan Paden, told the Ledger several items have been donated for the event from folks who know the family or other people that touched their lives like former teachers. 

“We just felt like mom is going to have to be off work being with her so things will be tight,” Paden said. “It’s nice to be able to help someone local who is in the community.”

Paden said if anyone is interested in attending please RSVP by Friday, Jan. 19, at noon. Tickets will still be available for $25 at the door but they would like to know as close to a head count as possible to limit expenses. Tickets can be purchased anytime by calling one of the organizers including: Nancy at 721-6247; Susan at 473-8241; Bonnie at 253-7201; Pam at 721-7589; and Pat at 473-0173.