Support Zone Fundraiser A Success

The Support Zone for Keith Johnstone fundraiser, which took place at the Orange Ale House last Saturday night, was a successful event.

Organizers are still waiting for a couple of final checks to come in, but estimate that the total raised was about $9,000.

Keith Johnstone, as many Amity residents know, is the Bethany Volunteer Firefighter who was paralyzed in an accident three years ago. He has shown tremendous progress over the years and even walked on his birthday in 2010. Unfortunately, the insurance company began reducing the amount of therapy he was receiving and his arm and leg muscles became weak, limiting his abilities and slowing his progress.

A new opportunity has come up for Keith to try an aggressive therapy program in New Jersey that could get him back on his feet again. The cost is $20,000 for three months.

“The generosity of everyone who attended the fundraiser and the people who donated raffle and auction prizes, have brought him one step closer to realizing his dream,” said Jo Johnstone, Keith’s wife.

“I don’t know how to thank everyone enough for what they’ve done for me,” Keith said.

Cheryl Vernik, who “worked the door” said people were coming in to buy tickets and handing over checks with generous donations as well. “It was wonderful,” she said.

Organizers thank everyone who came out for the event, and expressed special thanks to Jim Hassenmayer, owner of Orange Ale House and his staff for the wonderful service, free food and use of the venue.

“A big thank you to the band “Old Skool” [whose members are Amity residents] and front man Eddie Choiniere for volunteering their time and talent and rocking the room all night long,” said Isabel Kearns. “And our charming emcee Brian Smith, for keeping us laughing and helping with the raffles, auctions and announcements.”

“It was a great evening for a great cause,” said Cher Brooks, who worked along side Vernik at the door. “I’m so happy everyone came out to help.”

Log onto keithjohnstone.org for for updates and, in the coming weeks, information on how you can donate to the Keith Johnstone recovery fund from anywhere in the country.