The Stettler community once again came together in a generous spirit of giving as they raised over $6,500 at the fundraiser event No One Fights Alone hosted by Nikki Zatko and her mother Denise Johnston at the Stettler Community Hall on Saturday evening, Jan. 30 for Crystal Worth, an Alix resident working in town.
"We decided to put on this event for Crystal because she is an amazing lady that goes above and beyond for everyone that she knows and is incredible friend," said Nikki Zatko, one of the main organizers. "We have been friends for over three years and Crystal has always been there to help or with kind words."
When Zatko lived in a remote northern community with no family around, some women on the night shift formed the 'Panel of Moms' to help her maneuver through some medical issues with her two kids, and Crystal was part of it.
"My mum Denise has known Crystal for five years as they worked together at Heritage House in Stettler and then they were both transferred to Points West Living," said Zatko. "I couldn't ask for a better friend than her."
The evening started with supper, followed by a silent auction and music by DJ Gord Earnshaw, to which guests and visitors danced.
"We are very happy that we could raise $6,900 as most of the money from the auction and the evening was put into the donation, and we also have a bottle drive at the Stettler bottle depot running early this week, proceeds from which will also be given to Crystal," said Zatko.
The hall filled up slowly as the evening rolled on with family, friends and co-workers coming out to show their support.
"It was a great night out with family and friends and the kids had so much fun," said Rena Mantie Weibe, who works with Worth. "It was great to see Crystal and is absolutely heart warming to see that so many people could come together to show their love and support for such an amazing woman."
Crystal Worth, who was present at the event said that she was touched by the gesture.
"I truly feel blessed to be a part of this community, who has rallied together for us and poured out their hearts, standing by our side during such tough times," said Worth. "Denise, along with her team of family and friends put together a beautiful night for us and my favourite part was watching my husband and kids let loose a little, as I wateched them laugh out loud and dance and truly have fun, which I think was something that our family really needed."
Worth said that for the first time in months, they didn't look worried over her and "everyone could just breathe".
Zatko also extended her gratitude to local organizations and businesses that had donated for the event, either in terms of food and beverages or as items for silent auction.
"The benefit for the Worth family was an inspiring gathering of friends and family rallying to support a wonderful person on the arduous journey of cancer," said Karen Stoupe Trigg, who had come to the fundraising event and teaches Worth's daughter, Kaylie . "The atmosphere was fun, hopeful and encouraging and my family was grateful to join in the opportunity to celebrate with this wonderful group of big-hearted people."