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A sloppy joe luncheon and silent auction benefit event for local girl Keeley Wilson, 16, who has Williams Syndrome will take place Sunday, Dec. 28, at the Van Orsdel United Methodist Church, 410 5th Ave.
Keeleys mother, Dottie Wilson, said that Williams Syndrome is a genetic disorder that happens at conception.
"At the time of conception, part of one of her elastin genes was deleted," she said. "It usually does come with cognitive delay, developmental delays and low muscle tone. She's had vision problems - just multiple things."
According to the Williams Syndrome Association's website, https://williams-syndrome.org, this syndrome affects 1 in 10,000 people worldwide.
Dottie said that Keeley has had about 16 surgical procedures for various things so far.
"Her whole life we've been medically traveling and dealing with stuff. This of course is very significant what we're heading out there to do, but it needs to be done," she said.
Keeley will be having surgery to make room for her compressed heart and displaced lung in January at the Childrens Primary Hospital of Salt Lake City, Utah. Additionally, Keeley will have to stay in Utah for a couple of weeks to recover after the procedure.
Dottie also said that Keeley has a great attitude despite everything she has been through.
"She is the most loving person on the planet," she said. "She's just really a miracle."
The money raised will be used toward expenses related to Keeley's surgery, such as for travel and lodging.
Sheila Neuwerth, Keeley's godmother said that she organized this benefit and that she admires Keeley's unconditional love.
"She just has a really good way of understanding when you need a hug," she said.
Neuwerth said Keeley is part of Special Olympics-Montana but she is not able to fully participate as of now.
"She wants to be able to breathe right again, and she needs to be able to eat without having trouble, and she doesn't want her heart racing all the time," she added. "She will be a much healthier person after (this surgery)."
Keeley said that she thinks this benefit will be wonderful.
"I am going to be playing the piano (at the event)," she said.
The benefit will be held from noon to 3 p.m.
Donations may also be made at Bear Paw Credit Union into the account: "Stew & Dottie Wilson in care of Keeley Wilson."
For more information on this benefit, contact Neuwerth at 945-0145.
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