Benefit for Justin Monk offers fish fry, golf tourney, live music and cornhole. Register here.
Justin Monk has some really good friends.
The group, headed up by Aaron Collier, Sterling Doty, Toby O’Neal and Katrina Brister, is hosting a two-day slate of events aimed at raising money for Justin who is battling a second round of cancer.
In 2019, Justin was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma of the brain and spine. After treatment, the cancer went into remission, but has since returned.
A recent surgery to remove a large tumor on Justin’s spine has left him without feeling in his lower extremities.
Justin is a 2001 graduate of Stephenville High School who went on to serve four years in the Marines and was a squad leader during a tour of duty in Afghanistan.
He and his wife Monica have been married for 14 years and have four children.
Aaron Collier said he and Justin have been friends for about 30 years, since the two were in grade school.
“We played football together and have always kept in touch,” Aaron told Beneath the Surface News. “Justin is stubborn as a mule and passionate about everything he does; he is a fighter.
“He fought cancer the first time with full steam ahead, and he is doing it again this time. He is one-of-a-kind for sure.”
DINNER OF CHAMPIONS, CORNHOLE TOURNEY
The Monk Strong Benefit kicks off Friday, May 13, at Stephenville City Park with a “Dinner of Champions” at the pavilion beginning at 6 p.m.
The cost for a plate of fish is $20; crawfish is $30 and a side of corn and sausage is $5.
You can RSVP by clicking here.
A cornhole tournament will also take place that same evening with a competitive division for $80/team and a social division for $40/team.
Teams can register on site. Boards open at 5:30 p.m. and bags fly at 6.
And what’s a party without music?
Performances by Clayton Landau, Ryan Turner and Hayden Huse will begin at 7 p.m.
GOLF TOURNEY AND FAMILY FUN DAY
The fun will continue in Comanche on Saturday, May 14, with a golf tournament from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at PAR Golf Course.
The cost for a four-man team is $400.
Click here to register by May 6.
While the golf tournament is happening, the rest of the family can enjoy a little fun with bounce houses and outdoor games.
There will also be a silent auction and food available for purchase.
Three levels of sponsorships are available.
“Being a part of Stephenville ISD athletics, especially the 1998 and 1999 football state championship teams, has always been special to me and the others who were fortunate enough to be a part of it,” Aaron said. “Justin is part of a brotherhood, and the past 20 years have made us realize what a special bond we have.
“Every time I have talked to a former teammate or coach about the benefit, without hesitation, they ask how they can help and I have no doubt that our community will do the same to help the Monk family in their time of need.”
All proceeds from the benefit will assist Justin and his family with medical and living expenses.
For more information, call Aaron Collier at 254-396-3002.
All checks can be mailed to Monk Strong Benefit, 590 E. South Loop, Stephenville, TX 76401.
