FFA members and the Kimball Days committee have organized two fundraisers to benefit the Don Nystrom family. Sunday, July 27, Don Nystrom underwent a 16-hour surgery to remove a reappearing brain tumor. Nystrom was first diagnosed with the tumor 11 years ago. Since the diagnosis, doctors have worked diligently to remove it. “This was his ninth surgery,” Don’s sister Betty explained. “Hopefully, the doctors removed as much as possible.” A neurosurgeon, ear-nose-and-throat specialist and a plastic surgeon combined efforts during the 16-hour procedure. The length of the surgery was attributed to intricate work around nerve endings and blood vessels. Don was sedated throughout the process. “Don is now in the university’s intensive care unit. Once he is stabilized, the doctors hope to move him to the rehab center at the St. Cloud Hospital,” Betty said. Doctors haven’t determined how long Don will be at the U of M’s Hospital. Betty said that most of this depends on how fast he heals. A long road Don underwent his first surgery when a tumor was detected near his ear 11 years ago. As doctors operated, they attempted to remove most, if not all, of the growth. The persistent tumor has reappeared time and again after the surgeries. An important cause Betty explained that the family has not had any fundraisers, as of yet. This weekend will mark the first. Money raised will purchase a lift for the Nystrom’s home, pay medical bills and help the family with financial obligations. Betty said that the family has a split-level home. The tumor is affecting Don’s balance and ability to move safely up and down the stairs. A lift will remove this obstacle. “We need funding for [the lift] because no insurance will cover it,” Betty said. It is hoped that money raised will defray these costs. “We really appreciate the support of the community. It is really nice to come from a small town like this,” Betty said. Don is the son of Dolores Nystrom. He resides in Kimball with his wife Brenda and four children. FFA fundraiser Kimball FFA will hold a spaghetti supper to benefit the Don Nystrom family. The meal will be served from 5-9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at Powder Ridge. Tickets are $6 in advance and are available at Gohmann’s SuperValu, Kimball Area High School and Schmidty’s Kimball Conoco. Basketball tourney The Kimball Days basketball tournament will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9. For more information on this event, call Randy Saukkola at (320) 398-2776. Proceeds from this event will go to Don Nystrom and family.
