By Ernest Lincoln
Kylene Ballenger is 22 years old and has been battling a rare type of brain cancer called Ganglioglioma for the last 8 years. The cancer and treatments have made it a challenge to leave her home, forcing Kylene to crawl on her hands and knees to the door, sit down on the steps, and then slide down each step. Then her mother, Sandy, would have to help her back up. Kylene needed a wheelchair and a ramp so that she could safely leave her home.
Initially, Fire Commissioner Robert Johnson was going to inquire about how South East Thurston Fire Authority (SETFA) could get involved at the Fire Commissioners meetings. Sadly, he passed away before the meeting. In honor of his previous efforts, Sheryl Swearingen, a family friend of the Ballenger’s from Rainier School District, continued his work. She contacted Fire Chief Mark King and asked him if they were able to help. Chief King, already aware of the situation, checked SETFA’s donation fund to make sure materials could be purchased.
Two fire fighters with SETFA, Chad Halterman, who had prior experience as a home builder, and Mike Fogarty, immediately volunteered to help construct the ramp. Scott Delio, George Murchison and Jeff Davis from Rainier Chapel were also willing and available to help with construction. Mr. Halterman worked out the details of purchasing the materials from Mountain Lumber in Yelm and everyone showed up on November 4 to get started. The ramp was completed on November 5th.
Volunteers who worked on moving plants and prepping the area prior to building the ramp include: Brenda Flarghty of the Rainier Lions Club, Bob Gibson, leader of Boy Scouts, Boys Scout Troop #307, and several members of the Rainier Chapel congregation.
With the help of the S.E. Thurston Fire Department, Rainier Lions Club, Rainier Chapel, and Boy Scout Troop #307, this project showed how the Rainier community was able to pull together to help out a family in need. Kylene, Sandy and Nancy are very appreciative of the care and support of the community.