Benefit for pregnant woman battling cancer

SUBMITTED PHOTO Martin and Ashley Ausbrooks, who’s undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer, are expecting their first child in mid-November. A fundraiser for the couple will be held from noon-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Beech Grove Eagles Aerie 4167, 712 Main St.

Beech Grove Eagles Aerie 4167 will host a fundraiser for Martin and Ashley Ausbrooks, who’s pregnant with a boy and battling breast cancer, on Saturday, Sept. 6.

While the Franklin Township couple had tried for a several years to have a baby, Ashley didn’t get pregnant until her last attempt with in vitro. 

A few weeks into the pregnancy the doctors found a lump in her breast and subsequently performed a mastectomy. Ashley is undergoing chemotherapy and will continue to do so until the baby’s birth in mid-November. Then she will have another mastectomy and major reconstructive surgery.

A head shaving party was held July 23, when four women and 12 men shaved their heads with Ashley. 
“My husband has been there every step of the way,” she said. “I have lots of supporters. It’s helped knowing everything will be OK. It’s kind of reopened my eyes to God again.” 

The couple met at Perry Meridian High School in 1998 and started dating in 2000. They married in December 2008. She is a secretary for an outpatient surgery center; he is a machinist. 

Because the family will be facing some serious medical bills, the Eagles are teaming with Ashley’s family and friends – affectionately called Ashley’s Army – to help offset some of the expenses.

Running from noon to 8 p.m. at the Eagles’ lodge, 712 Main St., the fundraiser will feature Monte Carlo games, raffles, jumbo shrimp cocktails, barbecue sandwiches, corn on the cob, a chocolate fountain and other specially prepared delights.

Raffle prizes include a $250 gift card to McGee’s Jewelers, VIP credentials to the U.S. Nationals, a Smith & Wesson 9 mm pistol from Beech Grove Firearms, a $75 Sun King gift basket, $100 gift card to Bucca Di Beppo, $100 gift certificate to Ossip Optometry and a framed Andretti Autosport racing shirt with photographs.

Cash donations and raffle items are being accepted and may be dropped off at the lodge.