-
Humm-Dinger employees are shown with their teammate Evelyn Moralez at the “Stronger Than Cancer” Benefit they organized to help her navigate medical expenses as she battles breast cancer. Back row, left to right: Humm-Dinger owner Jason Zacher, Humm-Dinger employee Karin Anderberg, Ronaldo Moralez, Jeremy Stuber, Evelyn Moralez, Ethan Moralez, Humm-Dinger employees Gerri Bader and Dottie Poncelet. Front row, left to right: Tina West, Ellen Tobin, Kevin Phanthavong. -
Hundreds of attendees bid on silent auction items. -
Hundreds of attendees filled the senior center throughout the evening. -
Humm-Dinger owner Jason Zacher speaks to the crowd. -
Evelyn Moralez and Ellen Tobin.
True to the generous spirit of South Dakotans, area communities rallied around Evelyn Moralez last Saturday at a benefit aimed to help her navigate costs as she continues her battle with breast cancer.
A longtime Humm-Dinger convenient store employee, Moralez was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer late last fall and in February, she underwent a double mastectomy. After struggling with serious complications from her surgery that required hospitalization, she is now well enough to move forward with treatment and will discuss a course of action with her doctors later this week.
A surging crowd in support of Moralez filled the senior center in Wessington Springs to attend the benefit planned by her Humm-Dinger family and friends in the community. Over 250 people enjoyed a free will donation supper of pulled pork, beans, chips and drink made by the Humm-Dinger and desserts made and donated by local bakers. The meal was accompanied by a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, and a special one-item live auction that drew benevolent support.
Event organizers expressed a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated auction items, cash, food and their time. They are grateful to the hundreds of people who attended the benefit, purchased t-shirts, bid on items and gave their support in a myriad of ways.
“It was amazing to see how many people generously came out to support Evelyn. On behalf of everyone who helped plan and work the event, I want to thank each and every one of you,” said Jason Zacher, owner of the Humm-Dinger. “It’s clear to see by the wonderful turnout that Evelyn has made an impact on a lot of people over the years. Thanks again for showing up for her and giving so generously.”