A weekend of generosity ended with an emotional surprise for organizers after a local family stepped forward with a donation that pushed a community fundraiser to the $100,000 mark.
Organizers say the night had already been overwhelming, with the running total sitting at $97,000. Late in the evening, a woman reached out through Facebook to confirm the amount and asked if the funds were strictly for research. After learning they were, she shared that she and her husband had been following the event’s updates and wanted to speak by phone.
With no voice due to laryngitis, the organizer asked to call the next day—only to be told the couple had a “gift” for the cause. The message brought her to tears.
On Sunday, the family donated $3,000, officially bringing the total to $100,000.
Organizers say the milestone reflects support from every corner of the community—from a young boy who donated a quarter from his piggy bank to major contributors who helped push the effort across the finish line.
A photo of the family behind the final donation is expected to be shared soon.
