Fundraiser set for disabled student’s special computer

    Ranger – The Western North Carolina Shrine Club is working to raise funds to help a local disabled student get a computer she needs to help her complete her high school studies.
    Cherokee County Commissioners Roy Dickey and Gary “Hippie” Westmoreland have been part of the effort, going door to door to local businesses to gather donations. The major fundraiser in the campaign is set for Saturday, Sept. 28, with an auction and barbecue dinner in the Ranger Baptist Church Family Life Center from noon-8 p.m.
    All the funds go toward purchasing a Tobii Eye-Gaze computer for Lilly Cash, who was seriously injured in an automobile wreck as a young child. The cost of the computer is $16,400.
    “This form of assistive technology is a purpose-built communications device that will empower Lilly, giving her independence in her everyday life, including being able to finish high school with complete self reliance,” the release from the Shrine Club reads. “Controlled by eye-tracking technology, this device is unlike any computer that can be purchased in retail stores.”
    Lilly has studied independently due to her disabilities, and the computer would help her reach her goal to be teacher of a disabled children. Barbecue plates will be $7, and there will be cake sales and live music at the event. The auction begins at 5 p.m.
    Donations can be mailed to WNC Shrine Club, P.O. Box 1116, Murphy, NC 28906. The Ranger Baptist Family Life Center is at 151 Walker Road.