FAIRHOPE, Alabama - A benefit to help the family of Caroline Richmond, a 13-year-old Fairhope resident and 8th-grader fighting acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia, will be held this Sunday at the American Legion Post 199 in Fairhope. 

Richmond suffered a stroke in November, which led to her leukemia diagnosis. She underwent two brain surgeries at the University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile to relieve pressure related to the stroke and remains at the USA Children's and Women's Hospital undergoing treatment.

"The Richmond family is facing tremendous mounting medical bills as young Caroline battles this disease," according to a news release issued by friends of the Richmond family. "She is in critical condition at the USA Pediatric Intensive Care unit."

Caroline's parents, Dallas and Christy, are longtime Fairhope residents and have two other children, 9-year-old Julia and 4-year-old Dallas. The Richmonds have no medical insurance, according to friends of the family.

The benefit will feature live music, a bake sale, and fish fry and will be held, rain or shine, in the American Legion Hall. Several items, including local gift cards, will also be raffled throughout the day. Local musicians donating their performances include Chuck Ellis, Darren Lee, Robin Smith, Dewey Lee Johnson, and J. Gregory. "Karaoke Teddy Gautney" will emcee the event.

"Your support is needed and much appreciated," the release stated. "If you cannot attend, but would like to help this family, please make a donation to a bank account that has been set up at Compass Bank as follows: Christy and Dallas Richmond for Caroline. Your contributions are greatly and sincerely appreciated." Compass Bank is located at 36 N. Section St., Fairhope 36532.

The benefit will occur from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 29, at the American Legion post in Fairhope located at 700 S. Mobile St. The fish fry includes fries and coleslaw for $8.00. Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted. All ages are welcome. Any musicians, raffle items and questions can be directed to Robin Smith at 352-382-0106, or to the American Legion after 3 p.m. at 928-9132.

For more information and to keep track of Caroline's progress, see the Facebook page, "Caroline Richmond Caring Family and Friends Group."