Community turns out for Brock Leibhart’s benefit

    A huge crowd turned out for Friday’s soup and pie supper benefit for Brock Leibhart, a Chase County Schools sophomore injured in a one-vehicle accident Feb. 7.
    The 16-year-old continues to recuperate at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado.
    Friday’s benefit was organized by City of Imperial employees. Brock’s dad, Dan, is a longtime public works employee with the city.
    Jo Leyland, city clerk/administrator, said it was estimated at least 260 people attended.
    In total, the benefit took in more than $12,000 for the family, she said.
    “We were so very grateful for all the people who helped and contributed. We asked for 29 pies, and some people brought more than one, which was a totally great thing,” she said.          “We ended the night with only four pieces of pie left.”
    Two roasters of chicken noodle soup, four roasters of cheese soup and two roasters of chili (contributed by the Rotary Club) helped feed attendees, who gave free will donations.
    At the end of the night just one roaster of cheese soup was left over, Leyland said.
    Super Foods donated all of the food items purchased there for the benefit, she noted.
    “The community really came out to support the event,” Leyland said.
    Brock’s grandmother, Becky Berry of Imperial, said Brock is making improvement, and his doctors are pleased with the progress.
    “But, he has a long way to go,” she said.
    He entered Craig Hospital Feb. 18, where the family was told he could be for a minimum of 45 days. He was initially hospitalized at Swedish Medical Center, also in Englewood.
    His parents, Dan and Stacy, have been with him, but due to COVID restrictions, only one parent can be in the hospital with him each day. Becky Berry said they switch each morning at 7 a.m. His sister, Katelyn, has also been at the hospital, but cannot yet visit her brother in his room
    It may be opened to more visitors later on, she said.
    His grandmother said he has been receiving a lot of mail and packages from home.
Another benefit in works
    Members of the ABATE organization are planning a Poker Run Saturday, June 5, with a supper and silent auction as a benefit for Leibhart, said member Brad Dinnel.
    Those interested in donating a silent auction item can contact Dinnel at 308-883-0357, and also get more details on the event.
    An account for donations has been set up at Adams Bank & Trust in Imperial for the family.