Children often have the biggest hearts

Fundraiser for Jonathan Jude

Three-year-old Declan Jude idolizes his Uncle Johnny. Young Declan didn’t know the extent and depth of his uncle’s injuries, nor the constant pain he had endured since 2007; Declan only knew that his uncle was hurting, and he wanted to help. 

Being an inquisitive and caring child, he asked his grandmother, Brenda Jude, of rural Maple Lake, how he could help. 

What started as a suggestion from his grandmother to raise money through a lemonade stand, has since grown into a fundraising benefit slated for Sunday, February 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Monticello Community Center, located at 505 Walnut St. in Monticello. 

Jonathan Jude was injured in 2007, his senior year of high school, when his snowmobile collided with a power pole. 

Since the accident, Jonathan has undergone several reconstructive surgeries to repair and rebuild his left arm, resulting in an extensive and long list of medical procedures and rehabilitation. He has limited mobility in the arm and is unable to lift it higher than the elbow. 

Brenda stated that Jonathan’s struggles began at an early age, born two months premature. Having special needs throughout school, Jonathan endured a fair amount of bullying. 

Despite early struggles, Jonathan was a good student in high school and excelled in the sport of basketball. After graduation, Jonathan enrolled at North Dakota State University, earning a degree in Business Administration, and graduating with honors. 

Shortly after graduation, a second acute medical problem arose. A pilonidal cyst developed that has required seven surgeries and thousands of dollars in medical bills. 

The most recent surgery occurred on January 23 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. 

Severe infection required two surgeons and several hours to complete the procedure. Some medical costs are covered by Jonathan’s insurance, but not all. 

The Jude family hopes that this fundraiser will help cover the increasing costs. Planned events include a silent auction, craft and bake sales, as well as a Raffle drawing, with proceeds going towards the growing costs of medical procedures and evaluations.  

The fundraising event will include food provided by B & P Catering (pizza, brats, hotdogs, pop, and water). A plethora of games and activities will keep kids of all ages entertained and enthused. Hours for the event are from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

If you would like to donate to the silent auction, or contribute in any way, please call Brenda at 763-295-2079, or email at bjude2023@gmail.com.