The community came together the evening of July 20, at Creek Masonic Lodge 226 at 417 North Main Street in support of Lynn Hopkins Smith, who is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Organizers Tracy Hopkins and Kim Schrader enticed nostalgic locals, preparing Pat’s TacoBurger menu items and making those meals available for purchase in addition to holding a silent auction. The Lodge provided the venue and also sold 50/50 tickets in support of the fundraising effort. In total, more than $2,000 was raised.
Mason WM Gene Wood noted the benefit’s purpose was to raise money specifically in support of Smith’s travel expenses to and from all appointments and surgical procedures and any additional expenses. He said, “We provided the venue, kitchen, and support where we could, and we applied for additional funds from the Masonic Charity Foundation. Sometimes, they approve our request. This time, they did.” Last Friday, August 9, Mason WM Wood and SW Robert Saul presented Smith with a check for $2,466.
Wood expressed special appreciation for Hopkins and Schrader as “Those 2 ladies contributed 99% of the effort in making the fundraiser a success.They made it happen.” Hopkins reportedly coorganized the event and prepared the food, and Schrader co-organized the event, helping to set up and clean up before and after the benefit as well. Both ladies helped in soliciting and collecting donations.
Unfortunately, no response for additional comment was received from Schrader or Hopkins before deadline; however, Hopkins shared some information in social media posts and comments. According to those posts, Hopkins noted the benefit was a success and thanked everyone involved, including fellow organizers and donors.
As for the donors, Hopkins listed and thanked Jessica Marie Davidson, Bubba Barnes, Tessa Hill, Rhonda Plum Smith, Annetta Caldwell, Archie Caldwell, Melissa Hale Gaines, Carrus Hospital, Brandi Plum Williams, Ty Dixon, Cissie Carson Gaskins Hill, Bristow Veterinary Clinic, Ronda Schrader McBrayer, Popcorn Shack, Savannah Screechowl Native Mama Photography, Kemps Drug Store, Williams Food, Bristow and Sapulpa Walmart stores, Dr. Don Barney and staff, Jason and Ravin Remington, Design Junkies, Eva White, La Patrona, Route 66 Nutrition, Kendra Raney, Run Stop, Bonnie Barrera, and Derek and Kara Bilyeu Brown.
For her part, Smith expressed special thanks to Creek Masonic Lodge 226, her family and friends, and all who donated items for the silent auction. Battling cancer proves a great burden, but with her community of supporters behind her, at least the cost of transportation to receive treatment will be covered or diminished.