Hundreds come together to support injured Cove Village woman, family through benefit

SHERRY STREETER / SENTINEL PHOTO - Attendees browse baskets which were raffled off at a benefit for the Sutton family of North Union Township on March 30, 2019 in Cove Village.

By Kaylee Lindenmuth

COVE VILLAGE – Just shy of two months ago, Valerie Sutton was severely injured in an industrial accident. Since then, she has been in and out of the hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries and procedures.

Today, over 100 residents from northern Schuylkill and southern Luzerne Counties came out to support the Cove Village woman and her family through a benefit held at Cove Village Lodge, entitled Supporting Sutton Strength.

The event was organized by Stephen and Michele Gaizick, of Cove Village, who are close friends of the Sutton family.

“We felt we had to do something for them, because they’ve been back and forth with hospitals and everything else,” said Stephen Gaizick. “My wife (Michele) came with the idea of having a benefit for them, and from there, it just grew.”All proceeds from the event will go towards the Sutton family: Valerie, husband Bill, and children Lydia and Wyatt. 

“​Every dime that’s made is going to the Sutton family,” added Stephen Gaizick.

“The community really pulled together for this,” said Michele Gaizick. “We thought we were just going to have a small get-together, and it turned into an amazing event.”

Businesses and residents from across the Greater Hazleton and Northern Schuylkill County communities pitched in to donate items for the event’s basket raffle, door prizes, and food items.

Additionally, carnival games and face painting were available for children in attendance.

Entertainment was provided by DJ Nite Owls.

GoFundMe page has been set up for the cause as well.

About Author