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Jimmie Mac Benefit in Southampton, Friday Feb 5, 2010

Submitted by Jill Jayne on Mon, 01/25/2010 - 22:52

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	I spent thursday and friday last week in Southampton working with sixth graders at Southampton Intermediate School. I was returning after my performance in the fall, so the staff and students were very familiar with my messages and style. Teacher Karen MacWhinnie sought me out to share with me a life changing event that brought my messages for health and nutrition to fruition. Karen's triathlete brother, James MacWhinnie, was critically injured in December while helping his father remove an oil tank from his parent's home. When the step beneath him gave way, Jimmy was trapped beneath the stairwell as the oil tank crushed him and lacerating his liver. After a series of serious surgeries, 60% of Jimmy's liver and his gallbladder were removed and his respiratory system was repaired.
MacWhinnie, an employee at Core Dynamics Gym in Water Mill and a triathlon athlete who twice competed in the grueling Ironman race, held on despite trauma that would certainly have killed someone less physically fit. Doctors, family, and co-workers are convinced that Jimmy's physical fitness level and healthy habits allowed his body to fight the trauma and the surgeries. Karen has taken this all to heart, and has since become committed to eating healthier and exercising. She has already lost six pounds this January as she competes in the faculty "Biggest Loser." She signed up for her first half marathon and will run this summer in her brother's honor. Through the horror of Jimmy's accident comes an incredible story of recovery that has become an inspiration for everyone around him. Jimmy was without health insurance, so despite his recovery, he is still hurting. Karen and friends are throwing a benefit dinner for Jimmy in Southampton on Friday, February 5, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the old Polish Hall on Elm Street in Southampton. The evening will feature appetizers, dessert, drinks, a DJ, Chinese auction and 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased through JamesMacWhinnieFund.com. All proceeds go directly to the James MacWhinnie Fund. Donations may also be sent, check payable to the James MacWhinnie Fund, to c/o Hamptons State Bank, 243 Windmill Lane, Southampton, New York 11968. Contact jimmymacfund@yahoo.com for more information. Jimmy Mac "Strength. Love. Courage" bracelets can be purchased for $5.