Morris family is thankful for community support

One of the best things about a small community is when people come together to help each other out.

This past weekend, two local businesses did just that.

Hunter’s Ridge Winery and Trina Brown, a massage therapist, held an event to raise money for Katie and Ben Morris.

The wine and massage benefit held at the winery brought in approximately $400 during the four hour event.

“It was a nice day and good to be at Hunter’s Ridge in a relaxed setting,” said Brown. “I was very pleased we had such a great turnout and that everyone enjoyed their massages.”

Valerie Ball, one of the owners of Hunter’s Ridge, said they were pleased with the turnout. There were 19 people who came and gave to the charity.

“I think everyone had a good time and they were enthusiastic about giving money for the family,” she said. “We hope to be able to do it again.”

The Morris family is also grateful for the effort of others. Katie and Ben, the children of Chris and Christine Morris, both have had heart transplants and the family has many medical bills, doctor bills and medicines to pay for.

“We are repeatedly overwhelmed by the kindness of our community,” said Christine. “Many people have donated their time and talents to help our family since this journey began, from our Salem Presbyterian Church family to the Boy Scouts to other various groups and individuals. There is no amount of thanks that can relay how grateful we are to them for their prayers, encouragement, and support as Katie and Ben continue to navigate this path. Salem is a small city with a big heart!”

Katie has fought heart rejection once since her transplant and was hospitalized again Aug. 8 with slight rejection at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

She received a good report on Tuesday and was sent home. Christine said she will see another specialist in the next couple of weeks to discuss undergoing a treatment that might help keep her from rejecting so much.