Nelson mother gives back to foundation after life saving surgery

A Nelson mother is raising money, though an online auction, for the Nelson and Area Friends of the Family Foundation.

Ten years ago Andrea Purcell’s life was changed forever after her three-year-old daughter was diagnosed with a massive brain tumor which was crushing her brain stem.

“At that time I didn’t know anything about the Nelson and Area Friends of the Family Foundation,” says Purcell in a media release. “When they heard about her emergency surgery they were quick to offer help and support.”

Purcell says they have been raising money to help support the foundation and all the work they do in the area to help families. 

“We have run two Facebook auctions and helped raise approximately $15,000,” says Purcell. “We have also collected empties for the last nine years and raised about $80,000.”

Purcell says they are doing the Facebook auction as a ten year anniversary final celebration and hope to break another $10,000 which will put them over $100,000.

“This is our last and final auction,” says Purcell. “The community has blown my mind with donations. There are 200 donations already, which includes $1,800 in cash donations as well.”

Purcell says the auction will start Tuesday and end on Nov. 11, which is the same day her daughter had the surgery that saved her life. 

She says anyone who wants to donate to the auction or ask questions can contact her through email.