Fundraiser, carnival in Reelsville for Nikki Oliver
Friends are banding together to help Nikki McLin Oliver, a local mother struck by the Human Parvo virus B-19, on Saturday.
Fundraising events will run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and occur at the Reelsville firehouse, Reelsville school and other locations around the county.
There will be a craft fair, countywide scavenger hunt, mush ball tournament, carnival, spaghetti dinner and concert.
Oliver contracted the virus, rarely developed after childhood, this past winter.
During outbreaks a person suffers from rash, fever, aches and unpredictable heart rates.
Oliver is unable to walk without assistance.
While children are normally able to shake the disease in a few days, the symptoms have been debilitating for Oliver.
Oliver explained that while Parvo is part of the problem, there are further symptoms affecting her nerves, muscles and heart whose underlying cause is unknown.
Tests are ongoing and medical costs have mounted for Oliver and her husband Rickie.
Her friends surprised Oliver and her family by organizing the event.
The craft fair will be at the firehouse from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Next to begin is a car/motorcycle photo scavenger hunt. Participants will be given a list and asked to take pictures of places around the county and uncommon objects. Families are encouraged to participate.
Participants will register at the firehouse at 10:30 a.m., begin at 11 a.m. and are asked to pay a donation of their choice.
Winners will be awarded prizes at the dinner.
A carnival at the firehouse will last from 11-2 p.m. For a free will donation there will be unlimited games and inflatable bounce pit participation, with candy and hot dogs available as well.
The Mushball tournament will have a $100 fee for each team, with 10-20 expected.
The sport is similar to softball, but the ball is larger and, organizer Josh Morse said, practically like hitting a pillow.
To sign up, call Josh Morse at 721-3964. Games will be played at the ball fields by Reelsville school.
Spaghetti dinner will be at the firehouse and run from 5-8. The cost is a free-will donation, and there will be raffle and prizes.
There will also be entertainment as three local bands are performing.
For more information about the event there is a Facebook page at Craft Fair and Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser for Nikki Oliver.