By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
A benefit is planned for Sunday, March 9 for Shannon Rhoades of Ellendale.
Recently, Shannon was snowmobiling with a group in the Rushford area when the ski of her snowmobile caught a culvert marker. The snowmobile rapidly changed course and fell into a six-foot ravine. Shannon had to be airlifted to a hospital in LaCrosse where the doctors determined she had a crushed vertebra, as well as two breaks to her pelvis.
Ironically, Shannon lost her father, David Rysavy, as a result of a snowmobile accident in 2010.
Shannon was able to return home to Ellendale Feb 9., where she continues to recover from her injuries. Makenzi, Shannon’s 13-year-old daughter, has been very helpful to Shannon during her recovery, as have other family members and friends. Shannon has not been able to drive since her accident and has had to depend on others to get her to doctor appointments and other activities, as well as take Makenzi where she needs to go.Shannon is a loan specialist at the First National Bank of Waseca, Ellendale branch, and is hoping to return to work by earlyApril.
Shannon’s benefit will be held at the Ellendale Community Building. A good old-fashioned Sloppy Joe and hot dog luncheon will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a free will donation.
The benefit will also include a bake sale and silent auction.
If you would like to donate items for either of these events, contact Becky Lassahn at 507-684-3040. Supplemental funds are being provided by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. A fund for Shannon has also been established at the First National Bank of Waseca, Ellendale branch.
Proceeds from this benefit for Shannon will be used to help pay for her medical costs and household expenses while she has been unable to work.
Shannon and Makenzi moved to Ellendale eight years ago, and attend Vibrant Life Assembly of God Church. They have very much appreciated all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time, as well as the help they have received from family and friends. We hope the people in this area will turn out to help Shannon get back on her feet again.