Community shows out at fundraisers, with more to come

CELINA-As efforts to support 14-year-old Evan Hayes ramped up last week, the inspirational young man, who has battled leukemia since he was six years old, enjoyed an abundance of encouragement from not only the community here, but also from abroad.

As local people, organizations, and businesses rallied behind him to raise tens of thousands of dollars in a matter of days through fundraising events, Hayes wrapped up the week with a pair of special honors.

He was afforded the opportunity to attend the Clay County High School prom, where he was recognized as the Prom King, plus he heard from one of his heroes—pro golfer Bryson DeChambeau.

News Channel 5 reporter Nick Beres shared video clips of DeChambeau’s personal phone call with Hayes on his Facebook page and also wrote about it on social media.

“Despite his weakening condition, Evan still hits balls and spent time watching the Masters and cheering on his favorite player Bryson DeChambeau,” Beres said in his post last Friday.  “Well, word spread and some very kind and thoughtful folks with connections to DeChambeau reached out to him.

“And, wouldn’t you know it, the defending US Open champion called Evan last night.”

Beres explained the two talked about Hayes’ illness, about being brave, about having hope, and much more.

“And, yes, they also talked golf,” Beres said, before reporting what took place before the 20-minute conversation wrapped up.

“At the end, DeChambeau asked Evan if there is anything he wants?” Beres wrote.  “Evan told him he’d love to maybe play a round of golf with him.

“Done,” Beres said.  “DeChambeau plans to fly Evan to Texas soon and they will hit some balls.”

Beres also reported Evan’s mother Stephanie said her son “was on Cloud 9” and was “so thrilled and excited” to hear from DeChambeau and to have the opportunity to meet him in the future.

With the trip to hit the links with a pro to come and prom in the rearview, Hayes also enjoyed being on hand at a cakewalk and auction in his honor at Celina K-8 Saturday night.

Additionally, he saw huge turnouts for other events over the weekend, including a benefit shoot held at Terry Pigg’s, a benefit ride at the Mt. Vernon Fire Department, and a benefit horse ride at the Clay County Fairgrounds.

Other local fundraising efforts continued this week, including a spaghetti lunch Monday and the following events to come:

Sunday, May 4

CELINA-A Benefit Concert for Evan Hayes will be held here at the Clay County Fairgrounds Sunday, May 4 with music beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Performers will include Plainview Vibes, Zach Harper, Cherokee & Alex, Lucas McCoy, and Crossfire, with more to be announced.  Tickets will be sold for $10.

“Join us for an afternoon of music, fun, face painting, and food vendors supporting Evan, the hero of so many,” organizers said. “Bring and lawn chair and an empty stomach.”

Monday, May 5

CELINA-A preorder-only Munchy Monday benefit lunch for Evan Hayes will be held here Monday, May 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring a choice of BBQ nachos with shredded pork or a taco salad for $10 per plate, which includes desert.

Payment and preorders are due by Thursday, May 1.  For more information, call 931-349-4654.

Saturday, May 10

CELINA-A Crawlin’ For a Cure Benefit Ride for Evan Hayes will begin here at Donaldson Park at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 10.

Jeeps, trucks, and licensed side-by-sides are welcome, and a meal will be provided following the ride.

The cost is $35 per rider.  For more information, call 931-644-4524.

Saturday, May 17

CELINA-A Free Tailgate Party for Evan Hayes will be held here at Donaldson Park Saturday, May 17 at 5 p.m., with music, food, drinks, and more.

“Come out and celebrate our Evan!” organizers said.  For more information, call 615-906-0992.

Monetary donations

Donations for Evan Hayes are also being accepted at the Bank of Celina and other area Citizens Bank of Lafayette branches.

They can also be made via Venmo at @Shayes3232.