'It's our turn to help'

POST FALLS - Local musicians are rallying to assist one of their own and his wife.

A fundraiser featuring a variety of bands for Post Falls musician Larry Wilson and his wife Bertha will be held 6-9 p.m. Sunday at the Post Falls Senior Center, 1215 E. Third Ave.

Larry is in a coma at an acute care facility in San Francisco. His brain is filled with lesions.

"We want to help keep (Bertha) by his side," said Judi Osmonson, a friend of the couple who is helping organize the fundraiser.

Friends say, as far as doctors can tell, Wilson may have the Marburg virus, a filovirus that causes an acute, often fatal, disease.

Wilson often donated his time to play for area seniors and at community events.

"Larry is a gifted man, a wonderful artist, a fantastic guitarist and vocalist," Osmonson said. "They both have been a big help to folks around here and now it is our turn to help them in their time of need."

Wilson, 68, is also a artist.

Osmonson said the couple has insurance, but have still incurred a large financial burden. Bertha has traveled back and forth between Post Falls and California the past two months.

There's no admission for the fundraiser. Donations will be accepted for baked goods and plants. Raffle tickets to win prizes, including a GPS, will be sold for $1 each.

Dance music will be provided by multiple musicians, including Wes Hamrick, Pam and Noah Yandt and Wilson's granddaughters.

Information: 660-9434 or 777-0152