by John Dowd
Small town communities are known for coming together to help each other, and Stevensville residents are exemplifying that through “Ride with Mary.” The fundraiser and community event is being hosted by a group of close friends and family members of Mary Meyer, who has been diagnosed with stage three invasive breast cancer.
The fundraiser will be held at the St. Mary’s Family Center, in Stevensville, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 15. The event is open to the public and will feature a dinner by donation, serving chili and a potato bar. There will also be a live auction starting at about 6:30 p.m. with over 30 items. During the event there will be a silent auction with at least 125 items. In total, according to Meyers friend, Lacey Sutherlin, who is helping to put the event on, there will be nearly 200 items auctioned at the event in total. “The donations are very humbling,” added Sutherlin. Live music will be performed by Jodi Johnston and Stevensville local Shane Clouse. There will also be a cash bar provided by the Tin Can.
“It’s just a good way to come out and support a gal that was born and raised in Stevensville,” said Sutherlin. Meyer and Sutherlin have known each other since first grade. Sutherlin explained, “She just needs support. If it was someone else’s daughter, they would be the first to come out and support something like this.”
With medical bills already high, Meyer said insurance does not cover holistic remedies. “I’m used to putting things like this on and not used to asking for help,” explained Meyer. “I’m pretty independent, but I’ve just been humbled by the amount of support.” She said she is so moved by all the community support and “I’m planning on making a full comeback!” even though she also explained that her prognosis is murky.
Meyer graduated high school from Stevensville, and lives with her family on their family ranch in the valley. She also owns Diamond D Ranch Insurance and is active in the community. “This is what small town America is all about, Just taking care of each other. I feel very blessed by all the support from the community,” said Meyer.
More information on the Ride with Mary fundraiser, and how to donate, can be found by contacting Sutherlin at (406) 544-0043 or by emailing her at laceysutherlin@gmail.com.