Glenbard rallies around grad in need of surgery

For more than a year, 19-year-old Alex Pane has missed out on the pleasures of pizza, the fizz of pop and the indescribable pleasures of a zesty salsa.

His feedings come through a tube, 12 hours at a time.

Later this summer, the Lombard teen and his mother, Colleen, will move to Seattle while they await word that a suitable small intestine is available for transplant.

After going through 17 surgeries, and living with a digestive disorder since birth, Alex's insurance will fall far short of what's needed for this latest -- and massive --surgery.

Alex's teachers and former peers at Glenbard East High School have scheduled a 5K run and walk today in Lombard to help raise the estimated $100,000 he needs.

The Glenbard East community has pulled out the stops to help the 2007 graduate, raising $2,000 even before a volleyball tournament for the former star player started this spring. So far, they've collected about $10,000, nearly half of what's been raised for the family overall.

Teacher Ann Banfield is one of those who have taken up Alex's fundraising cause, not only because they became good friends while he was at school, but they share an understanding. She, too, has a rare medical disorder, though hers affects fluid that can build up in her brain.

"He and I get each other because of everything that's gone on," the fellow veteran of innumerable surgeries said.

While Alex's transplant will hardly solve all of his problems, it will allow him to do something new.

"He will be able to eat by mouth like you and I," his mother said.

And if all goes well, he'll have a two-year-break between surgeries. To date, he's gone through 17, not including the transplant.

"Since the day he was born he's been a fighter," his mother said. "He amazes me. He's my hero."

The Children's Organ Transplant Association is helping the family coordinate their fundraising efforts. For access to the Web site they've helped him set up, go to www.cotaforalexp.com.

Alex Pane 5K Walk/Run

What: A fundraising event to assist 2007 Glenbard East High School graduate Alex Pane, who needs a small intestine transplant.

When: 8 to 8:45 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. start today

Where: Glenbard East High School, 1014 S. Main St., Lombard

Cost: $25 and includes a T-shirt

Details: Visit www.cotaforalexp.com