A Facebook fundraiser auction has been established for the family of Ben Hepworth after the 16-year-old was diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anemia, which is described as a disorder of the blood and bone marrow.  Ben is the son of Dane and Brittany Hepworth of Star Valley.

The auction page, organized by a family member, states that Ben was taken to Primary Children’s Hospital on June 15 with a “soft diagnosis of Leukemia.”

“What we do know so far is that Ben isn’t making his own blood cells very well. He has gone through lots of testing, blood transfusions, platelet transfusions, and waiting has been so hard,” states information on the auction page. “Through it all Ben has been a champion!”

“Ben was officially diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anemia. They are working with an amazing team of Oncology, Hematology, and Genetic doctors to find out more. It is a rare bone marrow disease and there are several “branches” that they are still waiting on more test results.”

Family, friends and community members are encouraged to donate goods and services in the Facebook group. Members of the group are then able to bid on the items in an auction format, with all proceeds going directly to the Hepworth family. Money will be used for travel expenses to and from treatments and for medical bills.

“The family has felt the love and prayers of so many. Please continue on their behalf. They mean so much,” concludes the statement in the fundraiser page.

The auction can be found by searching for “Blessings for Ben – Auction” on Facebook or by clicking here.

A donation account has also been set up at the Bank of Star Valley.