A community fundraiser for Dean Layman of Ney, who is awaiting a liver and double lung transplant at the Cleveland Clinic, is scheduled for Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ney American Legion Hall, 350 The Bend Road.
Organizers say proceeds will help cover care, medicine, transportation, housing and other needs while Layman is in Cleveland, a stay the newspaper reported could run up to six months. Corporal Jim Hall of the Defiance County Sheriff's Office, who is heading the event with other deputies and associates, said Layman must supply $10,000 to $20,000 himself before the clinic will consider the operation. Hall said individuals, businesses and fraternal groups have already given items and cash, and organizers hope to reach $20,000.
According to information Hall provided, Layman has alpha-one antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition, and has used oxygen for roughly 15 years. Layman served 25 years in EMS with the Washington, Farmer and Delaware township fire departments and Williams County EMS, and 25 years as an associate deputy, working part time since 1997. He joined Ney American Legion Post 680 in 1997 and has long served as treasurer of the associate deputies.
The family-friendly event includes food, games, a Chinese auction, a 50/50 raffle and a firearm raffle, plus a bounce house if weather allows.
Layman, who was hospitalized Monday for a stomach blockage, told the newspaper he hoped to be discharged soon and planned to attend. Donations: checks payable to Defiance County Associate Deputies, memo Dean Layman Benefit, mailed to 113 Biede Ave., Defiance, OH 43512. Information: 419-980-6252.