Upcoming events to help Rochester couple struggling with health and financial crisis

A Rochester couple continuing to battle health and financial issues say they're thankful for the small community coming together to help them in their time of need.

A bowling event this Saturday from noon to 2:30 p.m. at Jr's Country Lanes, 1988 N Old US Hwy 31, will have proceeds going toward Jay Reichert's fight for cancer. Jay's battle with colon cancer started this past January. Effects from the cancer and chemotherapy have left Jay physically weak and unable to work. Prior to his cancer diagnosis, Jay had been a caretaker for his wife, Sandra Reichert, who has dealt with her own health crises for the past three years from an autoimmune disorder that has also left her unable to work. 

Since starting chemotherapy in March, Sandra says the doctors are very optimistic about Jay's cancer now being more controlled.  In June Jay is planning to start his first round of radiation. The couple said they won't know until later this summer whether or not surgery will be next in Jay's battle. While that news leaves the Reichert's hopeful, financial hardships have meant getting to Jay's appointments by using change jars for gas money. Sandra said both financially and physically, May has been the hardest month for the couple. 

Sandra says she's praying for a good turnout for their fish fry event on June 28 at the Fulton County Museum, 37 E 375 N, as its the biggest fundraiser the couple wants to focus on. Headed by Melinda Clinger and Judi Leininger, the event includes Dan's Fish and Chicken, a silent auction, bake sale, merchandise table and live music. Carry-out orders will also be available that day. All proceeds go towards the Reicherts. 

Tickets are $13 ahead of time or $14 at the door for adults, with children’s tickets for those ages 5-12 being $8 either time. Donations for the silent auction and bake sale are still being accepted. Tickets are also available for sale at several Rochester businesses, including Webb's Pharmacy, Northern Traders, and Bandidos Mexican Grill & Cantina. Sandra said she is thankful for all of the community members who have come together for donations and ticket sales thus far. 

“Everyone has been so kind to us the past few months. Although this is hard, I have to recognize the blessings too. The community has been wonderful. Bandidos for example donated a $100 gift certificate for the fish fry's 50/50 raffle. We have lots of people praying for us and we are thankful and hopeful for the future. We have so many blessings. Without those blessing it could have been so much worse, “ Sandra said. 

For more information about the upcoming events Sandra says people are more than welcome to contact her at 260-442-5375.