Cochrane continues to rally to help support a mother with multiple sclerosis raise money for future stem cell treatments.
As previously reported by the Eagle, two fundraisers are planned for the fall, initiated by Shelly Irmen’s caretakers. Since the announcement of the fundraisers was made other businesses in Cochrane have stepped to help the mother of two.
Irmen, 44, was diagnosed with the disease in 2003 and currently suffers from secondary progressive MS. The symptoms of MS are different for each person and in Irmen's case, her disease causes her severe tremors, extreme fatigue, memory loss, and confusion.
Because of the advancing nature of the disease, Irmen made the decision to research stem cell treatment centres across North America and started a GoFundMe page online in June to help fundraise for her future treatment as well as associated costs such as airfare, hotels and food.
Mark’s No Frills now accepting donations to go towards the GoFundMe account, along with Cochrane’s Scotiabank branch.
Despite previously reporting that Irmen had a clinic and a treatment date set up, the Cochrane mother decided more research was needed before making a final decision and she will start seeing a stem cell specialist in Edmonton this fall.
Organizers for the fundraisers are still looking for volunteers and silent auction items.
To stay up to date with Irmen's fundraisers, go to facebook.com/ShellyIrmen.
For more information about Shelly Irmen and to donate to her cause, visitgofundme.com/29jfhnur.
FACTBOX
How to help Shelly Irmen
Store accepting donations:
Mark’s No Frills, located at 210 Fifth Ave. W.
Scotiabank, located at 200 Fifth Ave. W.
Upcoming fundraisers:
Mehtab – Sept. 7, 4 – 8 p.m.
A buffet dinner at Mehtab East Indian Cuisine, where people can purchase a time slot for an hour and enjoy an East Indian buffet dinner, dessert and one non-alcoholic beverage. There will also be a silent auction featuring Irmen's water colour prints.
There are 40 tickets available for each hour at a cost of $50. Tickets can be purchased at the Mehtab located at 120 Fifth Ave. or contact Crystal at [email protected] or 403-688-1610.
Ducks – Oct. 15, doors open at 5 p.m.
The dinner and live entertainment community fundraiser at Ducks on the Roof will feature a steak and lobster catered dinner with Irish Band, the Atlantic Storm performing. There will also be a silent auction, 50-50, and door prizes will all proceeds to go towards Irmen's treatment. Tickets are $60.
For tickets, contact Crystal at [email protected] or VanderVeen [email protected].
