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Benefit planned for Brandon Shoot  Share
Brandon Shoot, 2005 graduate of Casey-Westfield High School and son of Randy and Marlene Shoot of Westfield, was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation and had brain surgery on July 28. A benefit is scheduled for Sunday, September 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Westfield Park. In case of rain, it will be at the Westfield Community Center. All proceeds will go to help Brandon with his medical expenses as he has no medical insurance. Tickets for the benefit are $6 in advance or $7 at the door. Price includes a BBQ sandwich, baked beans, potato salad, dessert and drink. There will also be a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. To purchase tickets in advance or to ask questions, contact Kelly Weir at 217.232.6562. A Zumbathon is also planned for Brandon on Saturday, September 12 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Westfield Gym. Cost will be $10 per person. Again, direct questions to Kelly Weir at 217.232.6562. An account is set up at First Neighbor Bank under the name ''Benefits for Brandon Shoot'' if anyone would like to make a donation.
According to Brandon's sister, Terri Miller of Martinsville, Brandon began having severe headaches, vision problems and numbness in May. Once he was diagnosed, the surgery was scheduled within two or three weeks. He was told any kind of wrong movement could result in death or paralysis. There are four or five types of Chiari Malformation, and Brandon was diagnosed with Type 1, an adult form that does not present any signs or symptoms until a person stops growing. Symptoms can occur in late childhood or early adulthood. The skull is too small for the brain, causing the cerebellum to protrude into the spinal canal. Terri said the spinal fluid does not circulate as it should. Early symptoms were neck pain and severe headaches with pain shooting down one arm and then down the other. By the time he had the surgery, he had numbness and tingling in his hands and legs. The surgery involved opening the skull and removing a portion to allow room for the brain. Since his surgery, he has been recovering at home. Terry said the first few weeks were quite rough for Brandon with a great deal of nausea and pain. He's doing much better at the present time and has started classes at Lake Land College. Sharon Durham is a staff reporter for the Casey Reporter.
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