Fight With Tom (Tom Smith Benefit)

Additional Information

Tom Smith, from Van Horne, was diagnosed with T-cell Lymphoma after collapsing and unable to breathe. Two days into his freshman year this August at Iowa State, Tom was given this devastating diagnosis.

A graduate of the Benton Community High School, Tom was active in cross country, track, show choir, concert band, jazz band, speech, and marching band—and more! His plans were to study engineering for the next four years at Iowa State.

Tom’s college plans have been put on hold so he can fight this battle against cancer. He is expecting to receive chemotherapy for 36 months. Recent results show the tumor is shrinking, and Tom’s prognosis remains positive.

Wish On A STAR, Inc. is hosting a special event for Tom Smith and his mother, Janet, to help cover their expenses associated with Tom’s on-going need for medical treatment. Wish On A STAR, Inc. is a new non-profit organization that was created to support people experiencing an acute crisis in monetary and non-monetary ways. Wish On A STAR, Inc. was founded by 10-year old Grace Gilbaugh of Van Horne, IA. Grace identified the need for an organization that exists to help coordinate the efforts of communities to support individuals and families in their home towns. Grace’s goal is to facilitate the coming together of communities to rally support for a neighbor in need. Grace hopes to challenge communities to unify their efforts in helping others through a crisis situation and create synergy with the impact of what a few people can do. Grace quotes Margaret Mead when she said, “Never doubt that a small group of people can change the world; for indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Grace is the only US Citizen diagnosed with STAR Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that left her with complex medical problems and several disabilities. Grace wishes to inspire others to be themselves and love one another.

The event for Tom Smith will be on November 9, 2014 at the Van Horne Community Center. The event starts at 4:00 p.m. and will last until about 7:00 p.m. We will be having a silent auction, a meal, and music for entertainment.