News
TREASURE ISLAND
Since Andy Brettner was born 15 years ago, hardly a year has gone by without numerous hospitalizations and surgeries.
He weighed less than 3 pounds when he was born three months premature and weighed only 30 pounds when he was a year old.
By then, he had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and undergone extensive therapies and treatments to combat severe asthma and allergies.
Andy did not experience the freedoms of other children until the age of 3 when he got his first power chair.
"I remember the first time he moved on his own. The biggest smile spread across his face and I began to cry," says his mother, Marilyn Brettner, who adopted Andy when he was born.
As he grew up, Andy also had difficulty talking, but a computer-like machine with a touch screen helped him to learn to communicate.
Throughout his elementary and middle school years, repeated operations gradually gave him more control over his muscles.
Increasing pain led to an operation to fuse his spine with two metal rods that only allowed him to bend at the waist.
Next year, he will start high school. All Andy wants is to be able to look his fellow students directly in the eyes.
To do that, he needs a standing wheelchair.
The chair costs about $20,000 and would allow Andy to stand upright. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, and would allow Andy eventually to drive a car while standing, according to the manufacturer.
"I have no doubt that a stand-up chair will have a lifelong positive effect on his life," his mother said. "He is emotionally bothered by his classmates looking down at him."
Unfortunately, the power chair that would let Andy stand is not covered by the family's insurance and they cannot afford it on their own.
The Treasure Island Chamber of Commerce is hoping the community will help get Andy that chair.
The chamber is planning a two-day "Lifting Up Andy" fundraiser this weekend.
"Andy's wish is to stand up like everyone else," says chamber president Jody Armstrong. "We hope to help him do that."
On Saturday, Benjamin's Studios, 200 104th Ave., will hold a silent auction preview and reception from 5 to 8 p.m.
On Sunday, Dukes Island Bar & Grill, 145 107th Ave., will offer live music beginning at 1 p.m., featuring Horses Wild, Pete Dorian, Boston Bob, Mike O, the Exchange Band, Comfort Zone and Chicago Rich.
The event will include a 50/50 raffle, prizes and a silent auction. First prize is a sport fishing trip for five (a $600 value), second prize is a sailing trip for four ($500 value) and third prize is a two-night stay at the Windjammer and a $100 Duke's gift certificate.
A $5 admission fee will include a free drink.
Raffle tickets can be purchased at Benjamin's, Dukes or through the chamber for $25 each or five for $100. All proceeds will be donated to the Lifting Up Andy campaign.
Payment for raffle tickets should be made by checks payable to the Edwards Family Foundation "Lifting Up Andy" Campaign.
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