NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's a theft that's sidelined a group trying to help children.
Folks at the Al Menah Shrine Temple discovered this week someone swiped a catalytic converter from a van meant to take kids to Shriner's Childrens Hospitals out of state, and cut through a second one on another van.
"It's sad because it's not the money but it's the downtime for the kids, and it's the kids who suffer," said Fred Lysak, Potentate of the Al Menah Shrine Temple.
The vans will likely be inoperable for a week, sidelining the group who is now spending time trying to recover from the theft.
"Most of my day I've been contacting insurance and body shops and it just takes away from stuff like this, what we could be doing for the children," said Horace Perkins, the Al Menah Shrine Temple Recorder.
Still, Horace and Fred say no matter what, they'll be looking forward to continuing their mission as soon as they can.
"Let's get the vans going again so we can keep doing what we do best, look after our kids," Fred said.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
