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Big Heart fundraiser helps purchase defibrillators

Ursula Child, assistant manager of Magnolia Bakery & Café, organized a fundraiser called "Big Rob's Big Heart" in honor of her husband, Rob Child, who passed away last year. The event raised enough money to purchase lifesaving defibrillators.

The fundraiser began with a memorial procession motorcycle ride starting at Hog Heaven in Salem, Wisconsin. The destination was KC's Cabin in Spring Grove, Illinois, where food, live music and raffle prizes were available for guests.

Local businesses donated raffle prizes, especially those who knew Rob Child and his kind personality. He had a large circle of friends he created through his love for Harleys and security involvement with WIIL Rock concerts.

John Kerry of WIIL Rock, one of Rob's good friends, advertised the event and generous donations were made by Woodstock Harley-Davidson, Jackyl, Green Day, Tuscan Tavern and more.

"I can't even express how great the people were," Ursula said.

The event raised $4,000, enough to fulfill the fundraising goal. The money was used to purchase defibrillators for Lambs Farm and Lake Geneva Badger High School. The remaining funds were used to buy medical supplies for Lambs Farm Health Services.

The idea to raise money for defibrillators stemmed from Ursula's son, Ryan. He is a cardiac arrest survivor whose life was saved due to a defibrillator five years ago.

After his recovery, Rob and Ursula were committed to supplying the device to places in need.

"Rob said we need to do something to raise money so if something happens, help is there," Ursula said. "He said we should put a defibrillator at Lambs Farm, and my son wanted one to be at Badger High School on the football field to ensure students have access to one."

The new Lambs Farm defibrillator is in the front office of the Magnolia Café and Bakery. Director of Health Services Kim Czyzowicz held a class at the restaurant for employees to learn how to use the device.

Unclaimed prizes at the event led to the creation of a Fall Raffle in the Magnolia Café and Bakery. Prizes include a Lake Geneva Getaway and Timber Ridge Birthday Bash.

Tickets are available for purchase until Oct. 31, with a drawing Nov. 1. One ticket is $1 or six for $5. All proceeds will go toward equipment for the restaurant.

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