OOLITIC— A fundraiser has been organized to support Kelsey Collard, a 34-year-old local veteran battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, which has spread to her lungs, liver, and brain. The event, titled “A Veteran’s Fight #KelseyStrong,” will take place on March 22, 2025, at the VFW in Oolitic, 1686 Veteran’s Drive, beginning at 5:00 p.m.
Collard, who was diagnosed with triple-negative stage 2 breast cancer in the summer of 2022, faced numerous challenges during her recovery, including a life-threatening blood infection caused by a port. She underwent a double mastectomy in January 2023 and has since endured several rounds of chemotherapy. However, just a month ago, Collard’s cancer returned after being in remission.
Collard’s community impact stretches far beyond her personal challenges. A 17-year Army veteran, Collard served in Operation Enduring Freedom in 2012 and in Kuwait in 2019 as a Military Police Sergeant First Class. She also volunteered over 300 hours with the USO while deployed, earning a Meritorious Service Award.
“She has been deployed twice and fought for us,” said Lori Snoddy, the event coordinator and a family friend. “Now, it’s our turn to fight for her and give back.”
Back home, Collard works at Shawswick School, volunteers with the Shawswick PTO, and coaches local youth sports teams. She’s also an active participant in Big Brothers Big Sisters and 4-H. Alongside her wife, Jessica, Collard helps raise their three children, ages 6, 8, and 11, as well as numerous animals. Together, they are an integral part of their community.
Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, Collard continues to be a pillar of support for her family and community, but with her cancer diagnosis now in an advanced stage, her family faces an urgent financial challenge.
The fundraiser aims to raise funds for Collard’s treatment at specialized clinics in Houston, Texas, or Scottsdale, Arizona, where she has been accepted for care. However, the cost of treatment is estimated at $80,000.
In addition to the auction, there will be live performances by local musicians, including Larry Summerton, who will play for two hours, followed by a performance from Doe Elliott. The event will feature a raffle, including two guns, as well as a 50/50 drawing. Alcohol will be available for purchase.
Local Restaurants Showing Support
Several local restaurants have stepped up to support the fundraiser by donating 10% of their proceeds on specific nights leading up to the event. These generous donations will help raise funds for Kelsey’s treatment and show the community’s collective support.
- Bandana’s in Bedford on March 9, 2025.
- Rusty Gator on March 14, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Pub 15 on March 15, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Special Art Piece for Kelsey
In addition to the auction and live performances, local artist Adam Long will produce a one-of-a-kind piece of art to honor Kelsey and her service. Copies of the piece will be sold the night of the event. This special gesture adds a personal and meaningful touch to the evening as the community comes together to support Kelsey.
Organizers are currently seeking donations for the auction, including items like fishing poles, coolers, event tickets, services, and more. Additionally, businesses and individuals can donate directly through Facebook (Lori Waterford Snoddy) or by calling 812-320-9198. Local businesses such as Pegasus Jewelers and Kay’s Jewelry are contributing items to the auction, and restaurants like 99 and Yamato are offering gift cards.
For those wishing to contribute directly to Collard’s family for immediate expenses, donations can be made via Venmo at @jessica-cazee (with verification code 3189), or by cash or check through the event’s contact number.
Thank you to all who have donated so far:
- Joan Straight
- Yamato
- 99 Chinese Restaurant
- Big O Tires
- Hair by Joanne
- May’s Greenhouse
- Kindred Spirits
- Kay Jeweler
- Magic Morning Bakery
- Four Seasons
- Texas Road House
- Advance Auto
- Auto Zone
- O’Reilly’s
- J Nails
- Primitive Porch
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Amy Spires/ A-1 Excavating
- Ricer Equipment
- Kristin Jones at The Loft
- Erin Kirkman
- Napa
- Pegasus Jewelers
- Rogers Group
- Rising Sun Casino
- Bailey’s Flower Shop
- Total Tan
- Hoosier Puppies
- Starbucks
- Hard Truth
- IGA
- White Sparrow
- Kar Kwik
- White’s Alignment
- Sadie Miskuf Realty
- Jennifer Allgood
- Dr. Courtney Miskuff
- Kitch Gates
- Growby’s RTO
- Zoii Dayhoff
- Superior Small Engines
- B2B
- WinSupply
- Anchor and the Ark Tattoo Studio
- Indiana Farm Bureau Jon Fox Agency
- Island Glow
- Primitive Porch
- Jiffy Lube
- Mama’s and Papa’s
For more details about the event, auction items, and how to contribute, visit the A Veterans Fight #KelseyStrong Facebook page or contact 812-320-9198.
