GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt chapter of Helping One Woman (HOW) invites the community to its upcoming July 7 dinner benefiting local resident Shenell VanWarmerdam, a devoted single mother, labor and delivery nurse, and survivor of sudden cardiac arrest.

For more than 15 years, VanWarmerdam has cared for women and families during some of life’s most important moments. Known for her compassion and generosity, she has dedicated her career to supporting others while raising her two children.

In 2022, VanWarmerdam’s life changed dramatically when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest caused by stress-induced cardiomyopathy. Thanks to the quick actions of her father, who performed CPR until emergency responders arrived, and the skilled medical professionals who cared for her, VanWarmerdam survived and was given a second chance at life.

Today, VanWarmerdam continues to face ongoing cardiac challenges. She lives with an implanted cardiac defibrillator (ICD) and requires specialized medical care, regular monitoring, future procedures and surgeries, and periodic adjustments to her work schedule as she recovers from treatment. Despite these challenges, she remains dedicated to her family, her nursing career and supporting her son Benjamin’s ongoing therapies and unique needs.

“Shenell is the kind of person who spends her life caring for others,” organizers said. “Now it’s our turn to care for her.”

Helping One Woman brings women (and men) together to support a local woman facing irreplaceable loss and hardship through community, connection and financial support.

Each attendee contributes a $10 monetary gift directly to the recipient the night of the dinner. There are also raffle baskets, a silent auction, live auction items and a dessert auction during the dinner. All proceeds from the night are gifted directly to the recipient, demonstrating the power of neighbors helping neighbors. 

The community is invited to attend the dinner on July 7 at Brewster’s Kitchen & Cocktails and show VanWarmerdam the same love, encouragement, and support that she has given so freely to others throughout her life. Doors open at 5 p.m. and dinner begins at 6 p.m.

For ticket information and event details, go to MySOSEvent.com or visit the Helping One Woman Galt Facebook page.