BUCYRUS―Ron Wagner was surprised and grateful to learn that the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 181 has chosen his son, Jacob, as the recipient of this year’s proceeds from the group’s annual Make and Bake Auction.

“I was asked if they could do this for Jacob and I just couldn’t believe it,” said Ron. “It will help so much with medical bills that are not covered and trips to Children’s Hospital in Columbus for MRI’s and checkups.”

Ron and his wife, Amy, have made many trips to Nationwide Children’s Hospital over the years with 18-year-old Jacob who suffers from Type I diabetes and Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder of the nervous system that affects how nerve cells form and grow and causes tumors to grow on nerves.

“He had surgery in August to remove part of his brain. This was done to relieve pressure caused by a stroke he suffered 10 years ago after a brain tumor was removed,” said Ron, who also suffers from Diabetes I. Amy also has neurofibromatosis.

“Jacob goes to therapy four times each week in Galion,” said Ron.

Ron, who has worked for many years for Colonel Crawford Local Schools, said the district’s administration, staff, students and parents have been very supportive of him and his family over the years.

“I am so grateful for the support of our community. Things are tough but we are happy. The Lord will see us through,” said Ron.

Colonel Crawford High School Principal Jake Bruner said on Thursday that the entire Colonel Crawford Community is behind Jacob and his family.

“Ron is an alumnus, friend and employee. He bleeds black and gold and when one of our own is down, we rally as a district and community,” said Bruner.

Tami Tima of the American Legion Auxiliary said Brandy Robertson had originally presented Jacob as the recipient of the proceeds of this year’s Make and Bake event.

“Our cause every year is to help a family in Crawford County and the Wagner family is very deserving of our help,” said Tima.

Last year, the unit assisted single mom Shanna Sexton Nash with purchasing a much-needed service dog for her toddler son, Grayson. Tima said Nash and her son will be at the event at the beginning of the day to update everyone on the dog and Grayson’s progress.

Castle Auctions and Appraisals, LLC, of Bucyrus will be handling the auction at the event.

“The group works hard all year to organize this event that helps others in our community. We are happy to help out and do our part to assist the Wagner family,” said Missie Striker of Castle Auctions.

The event kicks off with the auction being held at noon on Saturday, Jan. 25, in the second-floor banquet hall at the American Legion, Post 181, 123 E. Rensselaer St. in Bucyrus. Baked goods and craft-style items will be available for purchase throughout the day, along with hot sandwiches and beverages. A chili cook-off begins at 6 p.m.

To donate or for more information, contact Brandy Robertson at 419-563-6177.