Benefit dinner for Bob Tracy this weekend

The Ritzville Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 2739 is hosting a benefit dinner on Saturday, Oct. 20, to support Bob and Sandy Tracy with upcoming medical costs. The event runs from 5:30-8:30 p.m. and includes a dinner and silent auction.

Bob was diagnosed with leukemia this spring and began undergoing chemotherapy treatment on May 21. He is currently on a bone marrow list to find a match for a transplant. Sandy explained the bone marrow procedure is expected to cost around a half million dollars.

After a compatible donor is found for Bob, the Tracy’s will travel to Seattle for the procedure where Bob will have to spend almost a month in the hospital. The Tracy’s are expected to remain in Seattle for four months in order for Bob to remain under constant monitoring and for medication adjustments.

Sandy said they are currently waiting to hear if insurance will cover the cost of an apartment near the hospital, which is an estimated $1,500 a month.

“Because of his age, they’re only going to do a partial transplant. It’s going to be really hard on him,” Sandy said. “He’s got a good attitude and a good outlook.

“One of the nurses right off the bat said ‘keep your good attitude and you have to eat,’” Sandy continued.

During Bob’s first round of chemotherapy, he spent 37 consecutive days in the hospital. After returning home for less than two weeks, he returned to the hospital with a case of pneumonia.

Sandy said it was the second round of chemo that really hurt him, and after each treatment it takes a significant amount of time for his white blood cells to build back up. She explained it is important to keep him in a sterile environment to protect his health.

“He wants to be there (Saturday), its just too big of a risk. I will be there, and a lot of our family members will be there, and some will stay home with Bobby,” Sandy said. “We want to show our appreciation, it’s a beautiful thing that they are doing; it’s beyond words.

“We are so thankful, thankful for all our good friends and living in a good community,” Sandy added.

The cost of dinner is $15 per person, which provides a plate piled high with baby back ribs, baked beans, baked potato, roll, salad bar, coleslaw and a variety of pies for dessert.

All proceeds from the event go directly to the Tracy’s to help offset the costs of Bob’s upcoming leukemia treatments and bone marrow transplant in Seattle.

Individuals who are unable to attend the event are encouraged to purchase a ticket for a donation only. Tickets may be purchased from Sharon Oestreich, Peggy Crossler, Susie Kirkendall and at the Eagles.

The Eagles is located at 105 North Washington Street in Ritzville.