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Dana Nowlin, center, is hugged by Alex Thomison’s grandmother Wendy Robb as they pose for a photo with Nowlin’s grandson. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
When someone from Alex Thomison’s life began a battle with cancer, Thomison soon had an idea of a way to help them with their struggle.
A plan to host a benefit dinner to help her with current and upcoming medical bills was developed.
Back in early May, Thomison took to Facebook to ask whether there would be interest in attending a benefit dinner that he would prepare.
“The idea really just kinda popped up in my head. I have the ability to do something like this and so many amazing people willing to help that it doesn’t hurt to try,” Thomison proclaimed.
After receiving support and interest from people online hoping to attend the dinner, Thomison officially began his plans for his friend Dana Nowlins’s Benefit Dinner.
Nowlin, who is from Jennings, OK, was diagnosed with breast cancer around five months ago, and her cancer has since then metastasized to her liver and lungs. A spot on her bones has also recently been found.
“Being diagnosed was a big shock. I’ve been isolated from friends and family due to my health which is really hard. I haven’t been able to work since the end of January,” Nowlin said.
Planned meals for the event include BBQ chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled shrimp skewers, grilled New York steak, and dessert.
These items will range in price from $10 up to $18. To view more specific meal items, you can visit the Facebook event page ‘Dana’s Benefit Dinner.’
“I’m expecting a pretty big turnout but I have no idea how many people will be there for sure,” Thomison said. “People are constantly stopping me and telling me that they are going and it’s the most incredible feeling in the world!”
The dinner is set to take place at Slice 183 in Cor dell, and throughout the planning, Thomison said he has received much help in getting this set up.
“My amazing friend Alyssa Wedel was more than willing to let me use her building and help me put this on,” Thomison said. “I offered volunteer work to members of the staff before I offered it to others and I quickly filled all my positions!”
Thomison first began cooking 10 years ago and now works as a chef at White Dog Hill Restaurant in Clinton. He has said he aspires to open his own restaurant in Cordell and other locations someday.
Thomison invites everyone to come out to the event and is ready to serve those who show up.
“I think people should come out to have a nice night and support an amazing cause! Almost anyone I’ve ever talked to knows someone who went through a battle with cancer so I think a lot of people will support the reason behind the dinner,” Thomison said. “Anyone can show up at any time during the service to order food and takeout is definitely an option.”
While there is no set goal on how much he hopes to raise from this, Thomison said he would like to raise at least $1000 but added that anything will help.
“I am so thankful for this benefit dinner,” Nowlin said. “It means the world to me that people are willing to work so hard and take time from their busy schedules to help me.”
Thomison said he is very thankful for the help he has received from the community and especially for Alyssa Wedel allowing him to use Slice 183 as the venue.
“It’s amazing to see so many wonderful people be prepared to help and support something like this!”
Dana’s Benefit Dinner will take place this Sunday, June 27 at 5 p.m. at Slice 183 in Cordell. All profits will go towards Nowlin’s medical bills and any other expenses that need to be covered.
A donation jar will be available to anyone who wishes to donate without the purchase of a meal or dessert.
If you are unable to attend but would still like to donate, you can do so by visiting the gofundme setup by Thomison for Nowlin at the link here.