By Mary Owen
When Jeff Silbernagel needed help, neighbor Crista Miller went to bat, stepped up to the plate and swung hard.
To order a T-shirt, or to receive
an entry form call 503-580-4907
Send entrees to: Run for Jeff,
P.O. Box 63, Lyons, OR 97358
(Checks to New Life Foursquare Church)
This Lyons resident is hoping for a home run at the upcoming “Run for Jeff,” a 3K and 5K Fun Run and Walk to help Silbernagel, diagnosed June 9 with melanoma and now undergoing treatment. The owner of North Santiam Automotive Fabrications, Silbernagel has no health insurance to cover his cancer treatments and related expenses.
“Everyone is welcome to just show up and sign in at the race,” said Miller.
Mike Bauer and the Stayton Road Runners are helping out with the event, slated for 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at John Neil Memorial Park in Lyons. Registration is at 8 a.m. and costs $10 per person.
Divisions are: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and up. Ribbons will be given to all division winners. Cotton T-shirts can be ordered by Oct. 12 for $10 each to all runners and supporters. Proceeds will go for Silbernagel’s cancer treatments and care.
According to Miller, the use of John Neil Memorial Park has been donated, as well as prizes from many area merchants.
The Sibernagel family appreciates what Miller and others are doing. A benefit auction was recently held at the Grange Hall in Lyons, according to Sibernagel’s sister, Jennifer.
“We’re extremely thankful, truly blessed to have people that supportive,” she said of the efforts being taken on Silbernagel’s behalf.
Siblernagel’s parents, Cliff and Debbie, seven siblings and many other relatives are scattered throughout Stayton, Lyons and Jordan.
Silbernagel tries to keep busy by visiting the shop he opened in 1999, but his treatments have prevented him from working on a regular basis, according to the family.
They and community members are doing what they can to help.
