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Benefit Scheduled Saturday for Longtime Wheeling Police Department Employee

KAREN GRIMES

A fundraiser for Karen Grimes, a longtime employee of the Wheeling Police Department, is slated from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Greggsville United Methodist Church.

The Rummage & Soup Sale will benefit the Karen Grimes Medical Fund. Grimes, who is an assistant to the police chief and has worked for the city for nearly 50 years, started having medical problems back in late October.

She started feeling ill and test results showed she had low platelets. It was eventually discovered that she had bleeding in her brain and blood clots. She also tested positive for COVID-19. Her friend, Judy Bickmeyer, said Grimes had already been vaccinated against COVID.

“She’s my best friend. It’s tough,” Bickmeyer said Wednesday, adding Grimes has been moved back to Peterson Rehabilitation Center from Ruby Memorial Hospital, where she received her treatment and surgery.

“She’s going through therapy. Her legs are weak. She’s getting therapy for speech. It’s been a rough time for her,” Bickmeyer said.

The sale will feature various kinds of soups, along with hot dogs and a variety of desserts. Soups are being sold by the quart and include chili, vegetable, clam, chicken noodle, stuffed pepper, cabbage roll, potato and broccoli cheese.

The rummage sale will offer a variety of items for sale including books, toys, Nike and Jordan brand children’s clothing, kitchen gadgets, Christmas items and more.

Parking is located about three doors down from the church, which is located at 50 GC&P Road, Wheeling.

Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger on Wednesday wished Grimes well in her recovery.

“Karen has been a dedicated, faithful employee of the Wheeling Police Department for 46 years. She has a kind soul and always offers assistance whenever needed without reservations. We are continuing to pray for her recovery and hope to see her back at the department soon,” he said.

A GoFundMe page titled, “Karen Grimes Medical Fund,” also has been organized by two of her co-workers, Sean Snyder and Brenda Steiniger.

“She never hesitated to reach out and help someone when needed and always did so with a smile. In her professional role, Karen ensures that the police department runs smoothly and keeps everyone on their toes,” according to the GoFundMe page.

“Personally, Karen is a cherished friend to everyone. There is no other person as genuine and kind hearted as she. That is why we are asking for help. Due to the severity of the situation, Karen is unable to work.

“It is likely that she will be out several months, if not longer and this will undoubtedly create a severe financial strain on her and her family. We are asking for anyone who is able to help to please do so. Every donation makes it easier for Karen and her family to focus on healing rather than finances.”

According to the GoFundMe page, people may also make donations in person at the police department, 1500 Chapline St., in care of Sean Snyder. Checks can be made payable to Karen Grimes with “medical fund” in the memo line.

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