ROCHELLE — The Rochelle community and members of the First Presbyterian Church are rallying around a local woman and her family through fellowship, food, and fun.

“Lovin’ On the Lodicos” is a benefit and fundraiser for Tricia Lodico who was diagnosed with cancer. The event will be held on Saturday, May 12 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church.

The evening will feature praise and worship along with a meal and a silent auction.

Tickets, which include a pork chop sandwich with sides, are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and children 12 and under.

Sheryl Casey, event organizer, said she and about 20 volunteers assembled the benefit to help offset the cost of cancer treatments, procedures, tests, and surgeries.

The benefit is also a way to show support for Lodico, her husband Kent, and their two children, Riley and Isabella. The Lodicos are known as leaders and supporters of basketball, baseball, and softball in the community and travel leagues.

Casey said the idea originally came from Joel Russell and Mike Mershon who both are in a Christian Reunion group with Kent.

“Tricia has been my best friend for over 30 years. Our families are very close,” Casey said. “Tricia and Kent are greatly involved and leaders in the Tres Dias community. They are active in their church serving on committees, teaching Sunday School, and volunteering for many church and youth events.”

How to help

Several auction items available include an Addison Russell signed baseball and signed bat, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill concert tickets including hotel stay, Cubs tickets, stained glass window, and many themed baskets.

Casey said there is a need for donations of basket items, larger items, and gift certificates. To donate silent auction items, please contact Jeana Valdivieso at 815-761-4010 or email omegax@comcast.net, or Heather Sandlin at 630-854-1662, email Robert@flooringmarket.com.

Tickets for the event are available at Central Bank, Printing Etc., and at the door.

A Go Fund Me account has also been established for the family.

Casey said Lodico’s faith has remained constant since her cancer diagnosis, staying active in work commitments, church, and school activities with her children.

“Tricia is truly a servant of God. She has been an inspiration to so many people the way that she has gracefully and boldly stood strong in her hope and faith in God in her cancer journey,” Casey said. “She would be the first to say that this journey has not been fun or easy, yet her blessings have been abundantly overflowing. As a community, we need to come together and bless their family even more.”