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| By G. Michael Dobbs Managing Editor CHICOPEE Friends of a Chicopee man are staging a benefit to help him literally get back onto his feet. Frank Picard of Chicopee underwent an amputation of one of his legs on March 17 after four surgeries to try to correct an aneurysm. Picard, a member of the Weatherization Department of Springfield Partners for Community Action, has lived with pain for years and only submitted to the operation when he no longer had any options. A long-time roofer and builder, his job requires him to go to homes and analyze ways to conserve energy. "I just couldn't do the stairs," he said. His insurance will cover a temporary prosthesis, but will not pay for a permanent one. Picard said the estimates are between $10,000 and $12,000. Picard would like to return to work in six months, but must be able to walk to do the job. Picard's brother Ken has organized two events as part of the "Frankie Picard Ride To Walk Benefit." On June 25, there will be a poker run starting at the American Legion Post #425 at 37 Exchange St. The sign-up for the poker run is at 9 a.m. and will leave at 10:30 a.m. The donation is $20 per motorcycle and $10 per passenger. The conclusion of the poker run is at the American Legion Post with a barbecue and live music by Goat Ropers and Jovi. There will be a large raffle as well. Tickets for the barbecue can be purchased separately and are $20. For ticket information, call Ken Picard at 433-1943. |