St. James fundraiser more than doubles its goal

Reported by Kim Ratcliff – bio |email

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) - A group of residents from St. James Plantation hosted a golf tournament and appreciation day Friday in honor of Chef Keith Kopka.  They said they wanted to "Take Care of their Own" and they did.

Kopka came to St. James three years ago.  He was diagnosed with ALS 9 months ago.  Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, ALS is a degenerative neurological disease that destroys the brain's ability to control voluntary muscles.

Kopka, who is still working with the aid of a cane, will soon have to leave his job as the disease continues to advance. Once without a job, Keith, his wife Megan, and kids Bruce and Jaden, ages 14 and 11, will face a six-month financial gap before long term disability payments start.

When word of the event spread, St. James was forced to open a second golf course to accommodate the hundreds of golfers who signed up to play.  That's when organizers realized they would easily reach their goal of $30,000.

With the help of family members who traveled hundreds of miles, residents of St. James Plantation were happy to host this in their backyard with lots of caring friends.

The event raised more than $75,000 for Kopka and his family.  That money will be used to help pay medical bills and supplement the income Kopka will lose when he is forced to quit work at the end of the year.

If you recognize the name "Kopka," then you may realize Keith is Kim Ratcliff's brother.  She can't thank everyone enough for what they have done for his family.

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