Students hold fundraising show for teacher

The Bonneville High School Ballroom Dance Team was practicing this week for the first Angels of Mercy fundraising performance.

This year’s proceeds will go help pay for medical expenses for teacher Eric Haroldsen’s family. Three of his children have suffered from a rare genetic disorder called Fanconi anemia. One son died from it.

“I was pretty close to his son who passed away from this disease and so I feel if I can do something more it means a lot to me,” said ballroom dance team member Ancel Haroldsen.

Ballroom dance team members came up with the idea to have several performing groups from the high school do a show to raise money.

“I think they feel wonderful that they can use their talents to show their support,” ballroom dance team member Rylee Smith said.

The family is touched.

“It’s a little overwhelming,” said Mr. Haroldsen’s wife, Elisabeth. “They came to us and said, could we please do this, we know your husband doesn’t like a whole lot of attention, but we’d like to help.”

Fanconi anemia destroy bone marrow, leading to a host of problems. Three of the Haroldsen children have it. The bone marrow transplant for daughter Maralyn is expected to cost a half million dollars next month before insurance.

“Everyone likes Mr. Haroldsen, and it’s just been such an evolved thing because we’ve all Shad so much fun in his class that we might as well give something back to him,” said tudent Body President Tate Howell.

The show is Monday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Bonneville High School gym. Tickets are $5, and children under 5 get in free. An account has been set up at Wells Fargo for those who would like to contribute. Give to the Angels of Mercy Fundraiser account.