ABOVE: Lynn Schwieger and Caleb Roiger earlier this fall. A benefit to raise money for their cancer treatment will be held on November 13.

NORTHROP- On Nov. 13 a benefit will be held at Martin Luther High School in Northrop to raise money for Lynn Schwieger and her son Caleb Roiger to help them with the incurred costs of cancer treatment. The benefit will include a dinner and a silent auction.

Schwieger was diagnosed with breast cancer in April after receiving surgery. Roiger was diagnosed with testicular cancer after going to the emergency room for what he thought was appendicitis. Roiger’s cancer has since metastasized to his lungs. Both mother and son are undergoing chemotherapy. While they have needed to make frequent trips to receive treatment their physicians are encouraged by its results.

Schwieger and Roiger attend Zion Lutheran Church outside of Fairmont where Reverend John Henry has been involved in organizing the benefit.

“They are well-known, well-loved, well-respected members of that church so everyone (at St. James Lutheran) and (Zion Lutheran Church) are trying to gather around them and show them that we’re here for them,” said Henry.

Before her diagnosis, Schwieger was a regular substitute teacher at St. James Lutheran School.

“She has been someone who’s really dependable who we can depend on to help us out with substitute teaching and basically anything that’s needed around the school,” said Henry.

Roiger is the oldest of Schwieger’s children and works on the family farm. Members of the Schwieger family have been active farmers in Fraser Township for generations.

“The worst part about cancer is the way it isolates you,” said Schwieger in a message shared on St. James’s Facebook page.

There is no discernible link between Schwieger and Roiger’s cases, but according to a social media post, the two have been able to find some solace when sharing their experiences.

“I’m almost glad it’s together,” said Roiger in the same post.

The benefit is organized by a committee made up representatives from area churches. Outside of organizing the benefit congregants have donated meals and fuel cards to help with travel expenses.

“Everyone realized this family has been really hit hard,” said Henry.

The benefit will be held on Sunday, November 13 at Martin Luther High School in Northrop and will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The cost is a free will donation. The meal will consist of pork patties provided by Martin County Pork Producers, potato salad, baked beans, chips and dessert. The silent auction will close at 1 p.m.