Benefit set for toddler going into surgery

A medical benefit for a Great Falls toddler with ties to the Hi-Line is set for this weekend.

Kiari Marreel, 18-months, is scheduled for surgery Jan. 20, and a benefit to help with expenses is set for Saturday at 3 p.m. at Pit Stop Tavern, Raceway Cafe & Black Eagle Brewery located at 1600 25th Ave. Northeast in Black Eagle..

Kiari was born with a very rare heart condition that was found when she was in her mother’s womb with a right aortic arch that has a ventricular ring wrapped around her esophagus and trachea.

Kiari is the daughter of Tim and Joni (Heydon) Marreel and the granddaughter of Dean and Eleanor Heydon of Joplin.

Her mother said Kiari has recently shown symptoms and has been seeking medical treatment.

“(The money raised) will go toward medical, travel expenses, lodging, meals and stuff,” Joni Marreel said.

The fundraiser is open to the community with a spaghetti dinner, silent and live auction and a 50/50 raffle.

The dinner is $10 per person, family of four more is $30 and children under five eat free.

The 50/50 raffle is $1 each or six for $5.

People interested in donating to the auction can contact friend of Joani Marreel, Keri Nadeau at 799-1999; Great-aunt of Kiari, Paula Ramstead 899-7840; or Joni’s sister Marcia Heydon at 945-0735.

Accounts have also been set up at Montana Credit Union-Great Falls under the name Joni Marreel/ Benefit for Kiari Marreel and Bear Paw Credit Union-Havre, Chester and Shelby under the name of Marcia Heydon/ Benefit for Kiari Marreel.