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June 29, 2009

Benefit concert set for 7-year-old Elkmont boy

By Jennifer R. Hill

Five bands and numerous volunteers are coming together next week to help a 7-year-old Elkmont boy and his family.

Kyle Redding, son of Michael and Dena Redding, will undergo surgery today at Huntsville Hospital for a muscle dysfunction in his esophagus caused by autism. It is hoped the surgery will correct the function of his esophagus and complications caused from severe acid reflux.

Friends and family of the Owens community family will gather to help the family. The Country Crossroads Band, The Barnett Band, The Rural Impact, The Trey Morgan Band and The Sunday Tradition will perform at a benefit singing being held for Kyle from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. Saturday, July 11 at The Barn in Town Creek. The bands will begin performing at noon.

Kyle’s recovery will be a long process, Michael Redding said.

Kyle will stay in the hospital for at least a month, if not longer, to recover from surgery and learn to eat again, Redding said. Kyle’s diet will also be restricted for a year. He will continue to undergo occupational therapy as part of recovery.

Kyle also has immune deficiency syndrome, which makes it difficult for his body to fight off infections. His immune system doesn’t produce enough antibodies, so he will have blood infusions each month at the Children’s Hospital in Birmingham. If the blood infusions do not work to revive Kyle’s immune system, the next step will be a blood marrow transplant.

“I’m putting it in the good Lord’s hands,” Redding said.

Several complications have been evident since Kyle was born and diagnosed with Autism. Kyle has been through a lot for a 7-year-old but he remains upbeat, Redding said.

“He’s tough as nails,” he said. “He has autism so he has a higher tolerance for pain.”

The family is concerned about medical expenses, such as the blood infusions, that their insurance may not cover. All proceeds from the benefit will go towards Kyle’s medical expenses. Donations may also be made.

There also will be a yard sale, auction and bake sale. Auction items will include items donated from area businesses such as Crawford’s, Pimento’s, Grasshoppers, and CIS Bookstore. Hamburgers, hot dogs and soft drinks will be available for purchase.

For more information call (256) 232-0346 or 206-0206.

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