Polar plunge set to benefit Strano

In the Ozarks, community is more than just a place to reside, it is home and those who reside there often feel like family.

For the Spring River community, members are gathering to raise funds for one of its members, Kimberly Strano.

Strano has been in a lengthy battle with cancer and due to side effects from radiation and chemotherapy have left her vocal cords paralyzed.

On Jan. 9, adding insult to injury, Strano was informed by her insurance company there were many services that would no longer be paid for or provided.

One item removed by the insurance company is vital, adult formula which Strano requires.

“Kim is on a feeding and breathing tube because of scarring from cancer. Insurance has decided there are things they will never pay for. Who knows why,” Doug Driesel said. “We came up with an idea, Kurt Holloway and I did. We’re going to do a polar plunge and we’re seeking sponsors and all the money we raise will go to Kim and her family to help with expenses.”

Food is not the only need Strano has, as a go fund me campaign has been launched so she can purchase an oxygen machine.

Driesel said the polar plunge will be held Feb. 25and he and Holloway have decided to turn it into a competition.

“It won’t just be a plunge; Kurt will be The Bald Avenger and I will be Captain Iceberg. At noon on that day, we will jump into the waters of Lake Thunderbird in Cherokee Village,” Driesel said.

To make the competition a little more interesting, those who wish to support Strano can also vote for their favorite superhero with funds.

“No amount is to large or too small. If it’s a quarter for The Bald Avenger or five dollars for Captain Iceberg, it’s all in good fun, but in the end, Kim wins,” Driesel said.

Donations may be made by contacting Doug Driesel or Kurt Holloway through Facebook or by placing money in the benefit account that has been set up at First Community Bank.

For more information call 870-257-5967