In 2008, the foundation Parker's Purpose was started after Parker Inks came down with pneumonia and had to be permanently placed with a trach and ventilator.
/ WNWO newsfile
GIBSONBURG -- Four years ago, 12-year-old Parker Inks became incredibly ill with pneumonia and had to be hooked up to a ventilator for 30 days. During this time, the boy suffered a collapsed lung and lost his life on three separate occasions.
The Fremont community rallied together to fundraise and help the Inks family during their difficult time. While Parker still suffers from Muscular Dystrophy and needs a trach to breath today, his miraculous recovery inspired a foundation to provide financial help to families of ill or disabled children: Parker’s Purpose.
"The purpose end of it comes from his dad Craig, who during his hospital stay would always tell Parker, 'You have a purpose, you have a reason why you have to go through these struggles.'" said Todd Drusback, president of Parker's Purpose. "Because of his fighting spirit, it inspires all of us to give of what we have to help people in need."
On July 13, Parker's Purpose will hold a dinner and auction at Ole Zim's Wagon Shed in Gibsonburg to help Northwest Ohio children with disabilities and their families. Anyone wishing to donate can send an email to parkerspurpose@gmail.com, call (419)-334-7275 or purchase tickets for the event at http://www.parkerspurpose.net.
Tickets cost $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight. The dinner will begin at 5 p.m. and features keynote speaker Robert "Rocky" Bleier.
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