Howland helps teen

Community hosts weekend fundraiser

HOWLAND -- Members of the community came together this weekend to show support and raise funds for a Howland High School student who has been battling several serious illnesses.

Sandra Rose, 16, a junior at the school and one of the cheerleaders, has faced several illnesses in the past month and has been at the Cleveland Clinic currently in the children's rehab facility

Rose had three serious conditions that affected her health, an infection, a diabetes diagnosis and then COVID-19, her family and friends said.

Family said Sandra had spent 20 days in the intensive care unit and five days on a ventilator.

Terry Rose said his daughter has been battling the illness and is now out of the hospital and in rehabilitation at the hospital's children's rehab center.

He said Sandra is getting better each day and spoke to friends at a fundraiser event held Friday evening at the Howland football stadium.

Denise Mijavec, a local teacher and parent, was among the organizers of the event which included a takeout pasta dinner to support her recovery.

"We sold 600 dinners. With the basket raffle, dinner, bake sale, T-shirt sale and donations, we raised $19,000.'' she said

Mijavec said so many people in the community have stepped up to help Sandra and her family,

"Everyone is so glad to hear she is improving and progress is being made. She was so appreciative to get the big box of cards and letters," Mijavec said of a large box with Sandra's picture on it at the event which people could place cards inside.

Tammy Baker, a teacher and cheerleading adviser, said a special T-shirt with the message "No Tiger Fights Alone" have been made and are available to the public by calling Howland Springs School. Fellow cheerleaders have helped with the sale.

Terry Rose and his wife said they are very thankful for the support for Sandra and the family.

He said doctors have been trying to figure out what was wrong since Sandra in late March suddenly became sick with an infection, a diabetes diagnosis and then COVID-19.

Sandra had been to two hospitals and spent 20 days in ICU in the Cleveland Clinic.

He said Sandra was on a ventilator for five days and had multiple organ issues. Her health started to make a turn around Easter weekend.

Family and friends indicated Sandra is on the road to recovery noting she is fighter.

Mijavec said Sandra's friends have missed her and are always keeping up with how she is doing.

Pictures of Sandra were displayed at the gift and basket raffle table at the event.