Buggie is a cute, lovely 5-year-old girl. Three days after Christmas, she was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive brain tumor.
She’s part of the Lundell/Hofstetter clan — 2 families that have been in Westport for decades, and done plenty for the town.
“Our entire family has been thrown into a crash course in pediatric oncology, psychology, neurology, and physical therapy,” says the website LoveforBuggie.
Buggie has been strong. On her last day of radiation therapy she kissed the machine, held up 2 fingers, said “Peace out” — and blew kisses to the medical staff.
But on top of the devastating diagnosis, there are astronomical medical bills that will not be covered by the family’s premium insurance plan.
Family members and friends are uniting to raise funds, to achieve the best care and treatment for what they call “our beautiful and brave Bug.”
An open house is planned for this Saturday (May 11, 2 to 9 p.m.) at 15 Bridge Street, on the corner of Imperial Avenue.
Food will be catered by The Spread. Drinks are courtesy of Saugatuck Grain & Grape. The Eugene Ruffalo Trio will provide music.
All — including children! — are welcome. If you can’t be there but would like to contribute, checks (payable to “The Lundell Fund”) may be sent to Morgan Stanley, c/o The Saugatuck Group, 320 Post Road West, Westport CT 06880.
Peace out to Buggie! We wish her and her family strength during this time. They will have the support of this community behind them. We remember the tireless Sandy relief efforts based out of the white corner house on Bridge Street, and now there is another need for help. We hope Saturday brings much love for Buggie!