Tommy Brancheau needs your help after his collection jars for medical expenses were stolen
Read more: Local, State
MONROE, MI -- Eight-year-old Tommy Brancheau has a rare illness that is causing his muscles and nerves to deteriorate. His mother says his symptoms can be compared to someone living with Parkinson's or Lou Gehrig's disease.
The family has been told by doctors at the Mayo Clinic they think they can help Tommy, but it will cost $100,000 because the family's insurance company will not cover the costs.
But thieves have been stealing collection jars place at Monroe County convenience stores to help raise money for Tommy's operation.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Department says in one case, the crook was caught on tape. They are asking for your help in catching those responsible for the disappearing collection jars. If you information, you are asked to call 734-240-7745.
If you would like to help Tommy Brancheau's family get their son to the Mayo Clinic, donations can be made at the following banks:
Monroe Automotive Federal Credit Union
Monroe Bank and Trust
Note: Just make sure you know the name Tommy Brancheau when making your donation.
The Brancheau's are also holding a fundraiser:
When: Friday May 16th
Where:
Fraternal Order of Eagles
13363 Telegraph Road
Flat Rock, MI 48134
Cost:
$10 Entry Fee
Live Music - Dinner - Several Raffles Items (Including a Nintendo Wii)
Contact Josh for tickets: (734) 348-7165
or
Danny (734) 799-1861
AN EXCERPT FROM A LETTER WRITTEN BY TOMMY'S MOTHER TANYA:
"Over the past week Tommy has watched us search for any funds we can think of, make flyers asking for help, and heard us discussing what we could sell in attempt to raise some money for his medical care. Through everything I have been through with him as a parent that has been helpless while he cries in pain throughout the nights, nothing has broke my heart like it did when Tommy asked me a question yesterday. In a quiet and calm voice Tommy turned to me and asked "Mommy, do you think we are going to have enough money to make me better?" As I broke down into tears and hugged him his little sister ran out of the room and came back with a jar of change they have been saving for almost a year and she said to me with tears in her eyes, "Will this help make my brother better?"
-- Letter by Tanya Brancheau
