Benefit for Lutz family this Saturday

In times of need, people learn who their true friends are. One local couple's community is stepping up to the plate during their hardest battle yet.

A motorcycle ride and barbecue sale benefit planned for this Saturday will reflect the community spirit that spreads beyond the borders of Madison County.

Tom and Leah Lutz have been part of the Madison County community for more than 10 years. Tom Lutz has worked as a sergeant with the Madison County Sheriff's Office since 1999. Before settling in Madison County, he served 13 years in the U.S. Army. He is a veteran of the Persian Gulf War and, as a medic with the 2nd Battalion 7th Infantry, 24th ID, he was awarded his first Bronze Star with "V" for valor and a second Bronze Star while serving in Bosnia in 1996-97.

Back at home, he was a volunteer soccer coach with the Madison County Recreation Department.

Tom was diagnosed with the lung disease interstitial pneumonitis, a result of chemical exposure while serving in the Gulf. According to his doctors, the lining of his lungs appear burnt and scarred, and his only option for a full recovery is a lung transplant. Because of his condition, he is unable to work and has been forced to apply for disability.

Leah was diagnosed with the disabling neurological disease multiple sclerosis in 2003. Since then, the disease has progressed, leaving her with limited mobility. Despite her illness, she has continued to serve as a charter volunteer on the Danielsville Fall Festival committee. She also helps to bring awareness for a cure for multiple sclerosis and serves with the Madison County High School Soccer Boosters, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

According to Tom, the hardest aspect of suffering from these illnesses is the unknown.

"We take life a day at a time," he said. "We try to stay positive, keep our faith in each other and support one another."

The couple has two children who also have served the Madison County community. Alex, a 2006 Madison County High graduate, played high school soccer, is an Eagle Scout, volunteered as a youth soccer coach for the recreation department and is an advocate for Push America. Stephanie is a high school junior and serves as a volunteer for the Danielsville Fall Festival and Harmony House Child Advocacy Centers Ride to Survive. She also is involved in Scouting.

The upcoming Lutz Family benefit is a product of a community reaching out to help a neighbor in need.

"The benefit began with the idea of selling barbecue pork plate tickets by Assistant District Attorney Jimmy Webb, Sgt. Willie Wilbanks and the Danielsville Volunteer Fire Department," said benefit coordinator Jennifer Fogal. "Word spread very quickly. I spoke with my brother, (Athens-Clarke County police) officer Joe Gieger, who spoke with Mike Newell of Cycle World, who immediately began to organize the bike ride."

According to Willie Wilbanks, there is no way to estimate how many volunteers will contribute their time and efforts to the benefit.

"There have been a lot of people that have stated they would be there to help," Wilbanks said. "Our goal is to