Holidays a chance to help a neighbor in need
It started with flu-like symptoms. But with a brand-new job -- and insurance that hadn't kicked in yet -- Mario Ybanez put off going to the doctor for a bit.
He eventually went in. And Ybanez was eventually diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, with a host of accompanying critical medical issues, including liver failure.
His health deteriorated rapidly. "His liver was dying," said Michele Brandt of Geneva, Ybanez's sister-in-law and one of the organizers of an upcoming fundraiser to help the family offset mounting bills, medical and otherwise.
The benefit will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 9 at Fona International, 1900 Averill Road, Geneva.
Ybanez received a new liver in September, and the family is very grateful to the donor's family. Unfortunately, however, Ybanez's recovery has been far from smooth.
Complications include pneumonia. For treatment of that illness, Ybanez is currently in a drug-induced coma in the intensive care unit of Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
Needless to say, these health issues have severely impacted the family in all kinds of ways.
Ybanez is a Teamster, and works to earn his insurance every quarter, Brandt explained. Since he's been sick, he's obviously been unable to work for his insurance. "He has a job (he's a trucker) but he can't do the job," Brandt said.
As a veteran, Ybanez qualifies for veterans' benefits, which family members are working to obtain. But in a Catch-22 situation, he would have to be in a Veterans Affairs hospital to take advantage. And he's too sick to be transferred.
Ybanez is the sole support for his family, which includes wife Tammy and two children: Tanya, who will turn 21 the day of the benefit, and Ryan, 10.
The Ybanez family lives in Streamwood, making even visiting Mario a task that's not easily accomplished. ("It's $15 a day just to park," Brandt said.)
Day-to-day expenses are piling up and medical bills are mounting, with more certain to come as Ybanez -- apart from anything else associated with the current situation -- faces a lifetime of needing anti-rejection medicine for his new liver. So Brandt, Tanya Ybanez and friends Julie Augustyn and Katie Colliander are organizing a fundraiser to help the family.
The Dec. 9 benefit will feature live music by the band Slingblade, a bake sale, a craft table -- where you can pick up some holiday decorations and gifts -- a silent auction and pizza and pop.
Cost is $10, with all proceeds going to help the Ybanez family. Fona International is donating use of the space.
'Tis the season of thankfulness and giving, and this is a chance to give thanks for what we have by giving to someone in need. For those who want to help but cannot attend the benefit, donations can be sent to the family in care of Michele Brandt, 1924 Tanager Lane, Geneva, 60134.
• Þ• Þ•
Paging all former Santa Lucias, or Santa's helpers, from past Geneva Christmas Walks. I'd like to talk with you for a possible column. By Santa's helpers, I mean anyone who rode in the carriage with Santa to help him light the tree on the courthouse lawn. Please e-mail me at bbales10@ameritech.net.