News : Pray PHor a Cure event raised $12,000; many came from Vinton and beyond

Pray PHor a Cure Auction: Vikings basketball was among items sold.

Trudy Seidel and her PHriends and supporters at the Pray PHor a Cure event.

The Pray PHor a cure organizers are still counting the final tally, but they all agree that the event that PH (pulmonary hypertension) patient Trudy Seidel and her family organized this past weekend was a huge success.

"I am still in shock and overwhelmed with the amount of people who came," said Trudy on Monday. "It couldn't have been more perfect -- even a little snow the day before didn't stop the crowds. I will never forget the overwhelming love and support I received Saturday. Thanks to everyone for making it such a success."

Nearly 100 people filled the east half of the Benton County 4-H Building for the auction while the adjacent Open Show building was full of customers looking through garage sale items or bidding on the silent auction.

"It's hard to put into words how humbled we are with the outpouring of love and support shown to Trudy at the Pray PHor a Cure Fundraiser," says Shawna Kurth, Trudy's sister. "We are so proud to live in this small Iowa community where we support our own."

In addition to Vinton residents coming by the hundreds, the event also brought from all over Iowa, as well as Illinois, Nebraska and Illinois.

"When Trudy is having a bad day and feels alone with PH, I know she can look back on this day and feel the love and support she has. Thanks to everyone who attended and helped create this day for her," said Shawna.

The event raised roughly $12,000, and already Trudy and Shawna and their mother Bonnie Deutsch are beginning plans for next year's event.