Doc and Connie Lang
By Dan Walton
Pioneer Staff
The Farside Pub in Fairmont Hot Springs is inviting the valley to its fundraiser this Sunday, December 14th to help out a local couple in need.
Connie and Doc Lang from Canal Flats are both undergoing treatment for cancer. Connie is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday, December 16th after her second diagnosis. Doc was told four years ago that he had just three months to live and continues to defy his medical prognosis. Its for them that the Farside will be hosting the Jam Night Fundraiser, where guests are invited to bring their instruments for an open mic-style show. Admission is a recommended donation of five dollars, but any amount will be appreciated. Also in support of the Langs will be a clean out the attic-style silent auction and a 50/50 draw.
A friend of the Lang family who is helping to organize the event, Stephanie OConnor, spoke about the terrible challenges theyre facing.
The drugs and surgery might be paid for, thats awesome for sure, but what about the family, the loss of income, the travelling involved? And Connies supporting her whole family by herself right now because her husband cant work, said Ms. OConnor, who can recall many instances when her friends reached out to help others.
The Langs were residents of Canal Flats when Ms. OConnor moved to the valley 18 years ago. New to the community and pursuing childcare, she was trying to muster up the courage to ask another woman to babysit.
I knew nobody and needed a job, and trying to find a babysitter was so scary, Ms. OConnor said. (Connie) just pulled me aside and said, Stephanie, I will watch your kids for you. She saw my need and addressed it.
About a year after that, Ms. OConnor was forced to spend time away from the valley after her mother passed away.
Right away (Connie) said, Dont worry about your kids, Ill take care of them while youre gone. They never hesitate to let them stay at their house even though they have very little.
Another time, Ms. OConnor found herself looking for childcare again when her sons daycare felt he was too hyperactive.
Connie called me once again and said, Just bring your son here hes a good person and well take care of him. Theyre just always there.
Before becoming ill, Doc worked as a mechanic, and always does his best to share his handiness even though he is unable to work.
He will drop everything to come and look and try to fix your problem, said Ms. OConnor.
Both Doc and Connie will be at Sundays fundraiser. The event begins at 4 p.m.
