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Successful EventsWe made a difference in the life of Travis
Several Royal Neighbors chapters joined efforts to host record-breaking fund-raising event for paralyzed teen
What began as a typical Friday night under the lights at Ericson Field in Rock Island, IL, turned to tragedy when 17-year-old Travis Hearn, a junior halfback with the Rock Island High School football team suffered a burst C-4 vertebrae following a collision with another player. The impact left him motionless on the field, and he was transported to a local hospital where emergency spinal surgery was performed.
In the days that followed the accident it was too early to tell the severity of his injuries, but what was known was he would need the support of the entire community. And that’s exactly what he’s been receiving.
With Royal Neighbors’ mission of “giving back” firmly in mind, Home Office employees and local chapter members began to plan a Make A Difference Day event to raise funds for Travis.
Widely publicized throughout the community, the project brought together individuals who donated time, money, food, advertising, prizes, and much more to ensure success. On Oct. 28, 2006, the Home Office parking lot was full of people eating, cheering for their favorite local cheerleading squad, buying tickets for unique baskets, and talking with baseball legend Gene Oliver.
An added touch was a special visit from Travis’ grandmother, Gwen Stovall, and his aunt, Amy. “It is unbelievable, all the support we’ve been getting. I don’t know how to put it into words,” said Gwen.
When the final dollar was counted, more than $10,000 was raised. Members of the Royal Neighbors executive team announced that the organization would match the entire amount.
In mid-November the Hearn family was invited to the Home Office where Cynthia A. Tidwell, President/CEO, presented a check for $20,346 to Travis’ grandmother and John McEvoy and Mark DeBarr, two of the trustees overseeing the Travis Hearn Fund.
“You never know when tragedy will strike,” Mrs. Tidwell said before hugging Travis’ grandmother. “It brings out the best and the worst in people. We’re grateful we were able to do our part for Travis.”
Travis continues to recover from the injuries he sustained months ago. But he’s now doing it from the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. He is paralyzed from the neck down, but is able to sit up and is speaking better.
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