Cozad rallies to support Ide through cancer treatment
COZAD — “Benny Strong” and “Benny-Fit” have become familiar slogans in Cozad over the past few months as the community has rallied to support one of its own.
Benjamin Ide, a Cozad student, underwent a scan last summer after experiencing persistent headaches. The scan revealed a brain tumor, and he was diagnosed with medulloblastoma.
Cozad students are among the first to go through the free-will donation meal line at the Benny-Fit fundraiser held on Oct. 1 for Benjamin Ide, who is battling brain cancer. The meal was grilled right in front the Rivet Design Co. building and served inside. Tables were set up outside for people to eat at.
According to the Mayo Clinic, medulloblastoma is a fast-growing cancer that typically begins in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination.
It develops when changes in cells’ DNA cause them to grow uncontrollably. The tumors can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, increase pressure inside the skull and spread through the brain and spinal cord.
Ide’s treatment has taken his family beyond Cozad. Since his diagnosis, he has undergone surgery to remove the tumor and is now receiving radiation treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
Back home, the community gathered Oct. 1 for a Benny-Fit fundraiser in downtown Cozad. Rivet Design Co., which organized the event, stated on its Facebook event page that all funds raised would go directly to Ide and his family.
Formerly 3 performs during the Benny-Fit fundraiser in downtown Cozad on Oct. 1.
“We’re all rooting for him and hope he gets better soon,” said Cozad student Whitney Regelin.
“The whole community of Cozad is praying for him. We’re behind him,” Braelyn Malcom added.
Meridian Avenue was closed between Eighth and Ninth streets to provide a safe gathering space outside Rivet Design Co. Activities included a meal offered for a freewill donation, live music by Formerly 3 and bingo inside the business.
Cornhole players had two options: open play downtown or a tournament in the Elks Lodge room. Bounce houses, fire truck rides and face painting were also available.
“We’re doing this for a great cause. At the heart, this is what small towns are about. We support each other and become each other’s backbones,” said Bonnie Hubbard, who monitored the bounce houses.
Cozad High School freshman play cornhole in support of Benjamin Ide. Open play was held downtown while a tournament was held in the Elks Lodge. Pictured (left to right): Samuel Ross, Samuel Brown, Kael Hammerlun, LJ Brass.
Rivet Design Co. encouraged attendees to stop at the photo booth and take pictures for a scrapbook for Ide, giving him a little piece of home while he receives treatment.
Benny-Fit apparel was also available for purchase. Proceeds from Benny-Fit and Benny Strong apparel benefit the Ide family. To purchase apparel or donate, call Rivet Design Co. at 308-784-3404 or visit the business at 823 Meridian Ave. in Cozad.
