GHS student spearheads benefit for injured classmates

Published 5:39 pm Monday, February 28, 2011

What do you do if your life and good health are spared in an auto accident, but only days later three of your classmates don’t have the same luck?

Taylor Higdon, a senior at Greenville High School, experienced just such a scenario. After walking away from a car crash in late 2010, he saw fellow GHS students Cheyenne Connor, Karlie Hill and Airionia Wilkerson seriously injured in two separate accidents only a week after his own mishap. The three girls have undergone intensive medical treatment since their accidents with insurance only covering part of the mounting expenses.

“I believe my own circumstances could have been very different. And it could be my own family facing the financial burdens these girls’ families are dealing with,” Higdon said.

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That belief spurred the young man to spearhead organizing a benefit for the three teens and their families.

Set for Saturday, March 26 at the Butler County Fairgrounds, proceeds from the event will be split equally between the three students and their families to help offset the continuing medical costs during their recovery.

Gates will open at the fairgrounds at 8 a.m. with entertainment slated to begin at 10 a.m. Confirmed performers for the benefit include noted local talents Southern Legends, Nightmoves, New Vision, KAOSS, Willie and Wanda Stinson and several groups, soloists and dancers from Greenville High School also set to participate.

Door prizes will be given away throughout the day, and attendees can spend $1 on a raffle ticket for a chance to win

$100.

Legendary local BBQ expert Kenny Harrell will be cooking tasty Boston Butts and ribs which will be pre-sold, with a portion of the proceeds from all pre-sold meats to be donated to the cause.

Concessions will also be available, with all proceeds from these sales going to the girls and their families.

Of course, cash donations at the door are also welcome, say organizers.

The price of admission is $3; anyone four feet tall or shorter gets in free.

For more information, contact Edna Thomas at 334-382-8887.