Graham hosts fundraiser for Lorenzo Sparks

The life of the Sparks family changed drastically on Friday, Jan. 18 when Lorenzo Sparks, 18, struck a garbage truck while driving to school.

Sparks, a senior at Challenger High School in the Bethel School District, was severely injured and has been in critical condition in the intensive care unit at St. Joseph Medical Center since that fateful morning.

He may be there for several more weeks for re-constructive surgeries.

Months of rehab are anticipated after he’s discharged. Doctors aren’t sure if he’ll regain the use of his right side, according to family. Several of his injuries may cause permanent damage.

The medical bills are substantial, with more to come.

Sparks’ mother, Brandy Sparks, is a single mother of four and hasn’t been able to work while she’s been at Lorenzo’s bedside.

To help with medical costs and other expenses, a benefit dinner is planned from 2 to 6 p.m. this Saturday, March 17 at Graham-Kawpowsin High School.

Sara Lamrouex, coordinator of the event, doesn’t even know Sparks personally but organized this event for him and the Sparks family.

She explained that when community member Kori Gray asked if there was going to be a fundraiser, Sara asked Brandy if it was okay and she said yes.

“We knew this wonderful family needed our help to raise money to help pay for other expenses like rent, their power and water bills,” Lamrouex said. “They are trying to get his lung stronger and get some weight back on him. There is still no movement in his right arm, but there is full movement in his left arm. There is limited movement in both of his legs. Doctors keep saying he has a really long road ahead of him and to keep doing what we are doing because he is a miracle. Everyone who has worked on him says he is a miracle.”

Lorenzo played football for the Little Eagles from second grade through the program then played for Frontier middle school. He wrestled for Bethel All-stars, Frontier Middle School and Graham-Kapowsin High School.

“He played baseball also from 5 years old and was currently playing baseball for [Graham-Kapowsin],” Lamrouex said. “He was looking forward to this baseball season. Lorenzo has had a passion for cars since he was a little boy He always wanted a ’72 Chevelle or a ‘70s pickup. When he turned 16 he developed a passion for import cars.”

Besides the dinner of spaghetti, salad and breadsticks, there will be a silent and live auction as well. Tickets are $15 at the door.
Some items up for auction include four club level Mariners tickets, two Seahawks tickets, a private airplane ride, a BMW from the 2016 Trufant Family Foundation and signed by Seahawks players, gift certificates from various restaurants, baked goodies, including Holly’s Cakes, handmade aprons, a Taylor 414CE pristine guitar, Fender Limited PM-3 Sunburst guitar, Fender Acoustic Amp, and custom Koa made Ukulele.
Tickets are almost sold out, and can be purchased through McMullin Family Chiropractic in Graham, cash only. There will only be 100 tickets for sale at the door for $15.

Graham-Kapowsin High School is located at 22100 108th Avenue East Graham, WA. Additional donations can be made at www.youcaring.com/lorenzosparks-1074264.

Lamrouex thanked her many volunteers.

“We are Lorenzo’s army, a wonderful group of volunteers. We saw a need and delivered it. This event couldn’t be possible without our wonderful sponsor and community.