BENEFIT DANCE SET FOR LEWIS INFANT

JACKSON -- Taylor Weston Lewis, who is just over one month old, faces open heart surgery to correct a rare birth defect. His heart has two chambers instead of four.

The baby's parents, Robert and Jill Jarrett Lewis of Jackson, are planning a benefit dance Feb. 15 to help raise the estimated $100,000 they will need to pay for the surgery.

"He was born Dec. 20," Jill Lewis said. "My doctor heard a heart murmur."

After a few tests, doctors found Taylor's heart disorder. Lewis said the baby's heart must be reconstructed.

"That means open heart surgery," she said. The surgery will be performed in St. Louis, she continued. In the meantime, Taylor has been allowed to come home, but has made several trips to the emergency room.

"I'm the kind of person who, if I want something, I go for it. I want this surgery for Taylor," she said.

The benefit dance will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Jackson. The Manasa Galaxy Sound System will provide music. Tickets cost $10.

In addition to the dance, a drawing will be held for three prizes large prizes, a china cabinet, an upholstered rocking chair, and aquarium.

"We also have over 40 door prizes, donated by local businesses, for those attending," Lewis said.

Tickets may be purchased at Schneider Equipment, Outdoor Sports Center (formerly Schlegel Sales and Service), Universal Physique, Tantrums, and Schaper's IGA.

For more information, call 243-0191.