Jacoby Miles Benefit Auction

U.S. Olympians, TV and radio personalities and Hollywood showcase the VIPs attending a dinner and auction to benefit paralyzed gymnast Jacoby Miles Dec. 17 at the Temple Theatre in Tacoma.

U.S. Olympians, TV and radio personalities and Hollywood showcase the VIPs attending a dinner and auction to benefit paralyzed gymnast Jacoby Miles Dec. 17 at the Temple Theatre in Tacoma.

The gala event is raising money to pay for Miles’ medical and rehabilitation expenses. The Puyallup native and Ballou Junior High School student was left paralyzed from the mid-chest down after she landed on her neck on a routine dismount off the uneven/parallel bars Nov. 16. The oldest of six children, doctors say it will be a miracle if she walks again, but hopeful she can regain use of her hands.

John Curley of 97.3 KIRO FM is auctioneer for the evening and former pro football player and ESPN commentator Brock Huard is the Emcee.

The VIPs attending the auction include Hollywood actor Scott Swartz and U.S. Olympians Melanie Roach, Bree Schaff, Ariana Kukors, Adreinne Martelli, Anna Mickelson Cummins and Karen Thatcher.

“Jacoby’s recovery is going to be very expensive and a long process that will not be possible without the help of many hands,” said Melanie Roach, organizer of the auction. “All proceeds of this auction benefit Jacoby and her family for the best care that insurance does not cover such as an ADA equipped home and vehicle, and respite care. The goal of the auction is to raise $125,000.”

According to Roach, the lifetime cost of caring for a paraplegic individual is $5 million and $10 million for a quadriplegic.

Auction Activities
The fundraising event includes a VIP Meet and Greet with Olympians at 5 p.m.

“Attendees (to the auction) have the chance to meet with Olympians, get an autograph, their photo taken and enjoy appetizers.” Roach explained. “This is a once in a life time opportunity to meet all of these great Olympians in one place.”

With a capacity for 500 guests, check-in for the auction begins at 5:45 p.m. with a silent auction and then the live auction and dinner to follow at 7 pm.

Items being auctioned include:
• “ESPN Experience" day with Brock Huard
• Sky box for the Rhianna concert at Key Arena in April
• Exotic vacations
• Sporting events
• Spa packages
• Gift certificates for restaurants, spa packages and theater tickets,
• More items were being procured at press time.

Tickets are $100 each to the auction and $200 for the VIP Meet and Greet with Olympians.

Donations can also be made at www.goteamjaccoby.com.