By Staff
For the last few weeks all eyes have focused on two hurricanes, their destruction, devastation, confusion and turmoil. The need for food, clothing and everyday supplies is at its biggest demand, not to mention the clean-up and rebuilding required for victims to resume their daily lives.
In our community, we have a small cry for help that is not an act of natural disaster, but for Arnie Huffman the feeling is anything but.
Huffman is a lifelong Dowagiac resident who in May was diagnosed with cancer between his heart and left lung.
The first prognosis was terminal, three to five years with chemotherapy and radiation.
For an individual who is rarely ever sick, very active in the working world and with his family, the news that his life might end soon was a huge shock.
Seeking a second opinion, he found Dr. Mack from Kalamazoo. Dr. Mack felt that he could operate and remove the mass. Sure enough, he was able to remove the mass along with part of Arnie's lung.
As a precaution, chemotherapy was recommended as follow-up treatment.
Arnie kept his head high and told everyone he would surely beat this.
He even asked if he could stomp on the mass after it was removed, but it had to be sent away for testing.
With the loyal and loving support from the love of his life, Mary Kate (Giles) Serignese and his daughter Jenna Huffman, along with many family members and friends, he makes it through each day.
Most people know Arnie as the “Little Debbie guy” because for 10 years he had a route through southwestern Michigan.
Along the way he forged many friendships and devoted his time volunteering for many events, organizations and charities.
Arnie and his family now find themselves on the opposite end of this spectrum and need a helping hand.
With the rising cost of medical care, the bills are piling up.
Arnie, who was self-employed, carried no health insurance.
Arnie has had to face this tragedy head-on and doing so led him to do things he never thought he'd have to, such as apply for living assistance and Medicaid because his treatment doesn't allow him to work.
Friends and Moose members are planning a fundraising event to help with Arnie's medical bills and daily living expenses.
A day of fun is planned for Saturday, Nov. 12, at Dowagiac Moose Lodge 933 on M-51 North from noon until 8 p.m.
Dinner will be a hog roast, deep-fried turkeys and potatoes.
Dishes to pass or snack foods are welcome and would be greatly appreciated. An at-the-door donation is all that is asked.
There will also be darts, pool, face painting for kids, cards, 50/50 drawings and horseshoes if weather permits. A bake sale will also take place.
An auction is being planned. Moose members are asking local businesses and individuals for donations of items to be auctioned.
One item received is a hat from the Bristol, Tenn., NASCAR race which was given to a friend of Arnie's from Jeff Gordon's racing crew.
The hat was donated by Bryon Burnett of Watervliet.
Crafts will also be sold.
A special account has been set up at Dowagiac Area Federal Credit Union.
Contributions may be made to “Helping Hands,” care of Mary Kate Serignese.
Please remember to mark your calendars for Nov. 12 and to stop out to enjoying the gathering of friends and to have fun.