Two Bigfork chiropractors are calling on the Flathead to help support one of their patients, a former petty officer in the U.S. Navy who has been waiting 10 years to get a prosthetic arm.
Susan Bennett lost her arm as the result of an accident that occurred while she was in the Navy and contracted out to a private company. A resulting, ongoing legal battle has prevented her from receiving benefits from the Veterans Administration, Dr. Oliver Whipple said.
Whipple said he and Dr. Delaney Carlson decided to throw the event, titled “Benefit 4 Bennett,” after learning about family hardships Bennett recently suffered that has left her supporting her family on $800 a month.
“We decided we could help her rally the community and ease financial stresses,” Whipple said.
The chiropractors realized a prosthetic arm is a costly piece of equipment, Whipple said, but any amount of help from the community would be appreciated.
The benefit will take place on Sunday, March 11 at Kalispell VFW hall from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Bluegrass band Spring Wagon and rockers The Kenny James Miller Band are scheduled to perform, and there will also be a silent auction and door prizes.
Food will include chili, hot dogs and beverages for adults and children.
All proceeds will go to Bennett, Whipple said.
“I think it’s going to be a big success,” Whipple said. “We’re going to have fun.”
Donations can be sent to Whipple’s office at 8570 MT Highway 35, Bigfork, 59911.