MASON CITY – In the unceasing spirit of generosity and support that seems to flood every town in Custer County, Mason City will be holding a benefit silent auction and meal at its community center to assist Andy Gibbons and Jacob Hoblyn-Bittner.
Jacob, an Ansley High School sophomore, will be undergoing a kidney transplant, with Gibbons as his donor. The operation will require travel to, and recovery time in Omaha, which naturally gives rise to all manner of expenses, both anticipated and unexpected.
Gibbons’ reasoning, when asked why the problem fell to him to solve, was so simple it appeared obvious.
“Because this kid needs a kidney, and I have a spare one. That’s just the thing you do to help somebody.”
Despite the financial and medical commitment, Gibbons says he’s going into the procedure with absolutely zero hesitation and a sense of humor.
“It’s just the thing you do in a small community. If somebody needs help you jump down and give them a hand. Or a kidney.”
While his donor will be unable to work, Jacob will be recovering; both will be out east for anywhere between 6 and 8 weeks. Mason City’s lunch and silent auction, held at the Mason City Community Building between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday, will benefit those expenses for both families as they take their first steps down the road to recovery.
The meal is a free-will donation, and will include pulled pork, beans, chips, salad, and dessert; those unable to attend the benefit can make monetary donations to the families by calling Kevin at (308) 212-0401 or Jill at (308) 212-0400. A flyer is attached.
