Moose Lodge Benefit Nets Over $10K for Child with Bone Cancer

Lake Wales Moose Lodge 2391 officials were thrilled with the success of their Aug. 25 fundraiser to benefit 12-year-old Ambrey Batson, who is battling a rare form of bone cancer. The Lodge set a goal of $5,000 for the event and ended up raising more than double that amount.

The benefit drew about 200 people and served about 130 of the pulled pork dinners. Other funds were raised through an auction, raffles and 50-50 drawing.

Lodge Past Governor and event Volunteer Joe Settle expressed appreciation to Lake Wales area merchants who generously donated toward the event. Lodge officials presented a check to the Batson family for $10,022.

Ambrey is a 7th grader at Bok Academy North, where her mother Shelley is an assistant principal. She is undergoing chemotherapy at Nemours Children's Hospital.

The grateful mother posted this thank-you on Facebook: "Daily we are humbled and overwhelmed by the support of our community. From our local churches and schools to our local merchants, community members and friends, along with the Moose Lodge, all have lavishly loved on our sweet Ambrey.

"The far reaching prayers and support we have received is unbelievable. We have never seen sch an outpouring of love. We are truly humbled and grateful!"