Fundraiser for Manning's Rick Elms set for Saturday

MANNING - A man who has dedicated his life to serving others needs a helping hand right now as he struggles to regain his health.

Rick Elms, 55, of Manning, retired from law enforcement after spending 27 years protecting the community that he has called home for most of his life. Elms is now a patient at Duke University Hospital after complications from heart surgery.

Elms' friends and former co-workers have joined hands to raise money to help with his medical bills.

Iron Sharpens Iron Bible Study group and dozens of volunteers have a fundraiser planned from noon until 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at Manning Fire Department, 38 W. Boyce St.

Folks can enjoy a delicious homecooked chicken perlo meal for just a $10 donation.

Lt. Sean Briley with Manning Police Department, who is coordinating the fundraiser, said that tickets for the meals are very limited.

"We're selling out of tickets fast," Briley said. "We may have some tickets at the door. Even if we run out of tickets, we're still encouraging individuals to make a donation."

Elms and his wife, Candi, have three daughters and a granddaughter.

"We're so very thankful for everything people have done for us," Candi said Thursday. "People have been so good to us. Please continue to keep us in your prayers."

Individuals wanting to make a donation can drop off their donations at Manning Police Department, 38 W. Boyce St.