slideshow

Tommy and Stevanna Benton didn’t think they could afford a lift chair until Bob Hayes came into their life.

Tommy Benton, volunteer for the Elkin Rescue Squad for 35 years, has been health declining since he was diagnosed with cancer.

“We went to look at lift chairs, and they all are starting at $1,000. The same day we got a phone call from Monroe Wagoner who said Bob Hayes was interested in donating money to us,” said Tommy’s wife, Stevanna. “I’m so overwhelmed by his donation.”

Hayes, 81-year-old Army veteran, read about Benton in The Tribune when the Rescue Squad raised money for him in April with a pancake breakfast. He originally had told the Benton’s he was going to donate $500 to them, but surprised them with more.

“I try to help out a lot of people behind the scenes,” said Hayes. “I had already written out one check for $500,” Hayes said. “Then last night I started writing a second check for $300, but God told me to rip that one up. I wrote a second check for $500 and am giving $1,000.”

One reason for Hayes’ benevolence towards the Benton’s is his appreciation for the Rescue Squad.

“I appreciate what Tommy has done with the rescue squad,” Hayes said. “The rescue squad does a lot behind the scenes and is a vital part to any community. If they didn’t have their volunteers the hospital would have a difficult time.”

Since Tommy was diagnosed with cancer, he became a Life Member of the Elkin Rescue Squad. He isn’t as active as he used to be and can’t lift heavy items but is still able to make house calls. Stevanna rides along with Tommy in case he is the only person to respond.

“I like being able to help people and know they are still here, because of the Rescue Squad. I got involved with the Rescue Squad when I close friend of mine got into a car accident and hit a tree,” Tommy said. “I didn’t know what to do, or how to stop the bleeding. If I had, he might be living today.”

Reach Jessica Pickens at 835-1513 or jpickens@heartlandpublications.com