KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – The Lake Region community will unite on Dec. 2 to raise money and, more importantly, rally to embrace Anthony Reynolds’ difficult recovery from injuries sustained in an ATV crash on Aug. 20.

The event will be at Melrose Heritage Park, featuring four bands, food, a raffle and a 50/50 drawing.

Reynolds suffered a fractured sixth thoracic vertebrae in his spine after he was thrown from his four-wheeler while riding on a dirt road near County Road 315C. He approached a turn at a high rate of speed – and with no brakes.

“I hit the lime rock in the road, launching me in the air,” he said. “I saw fence posts, so I closed my eyes. While my eyes were closed, I hit a post and heard some cracks. When I opened my eyes, my friends were freaking out. They helped me sit up and I heard cracks and pops down my back.”

The accident left him paralyzed.

His father, Eric Reynolds, hopes his son will be strong enough to attend the benefit. He knows Anthony remains optimistic about his future but is unsure if his body is ready.

“You know, he’s paralyzed, but people treat him like he’s normal,” Eric said. “He’s getting around pretty good. He’s going to therapy. He’s doing everything he needs to do. Spiritually, he’s good.”

The fundraiser will start at 10 a.m. It will include sets by Mismanagement, Low Key, Outlaw Country and Second Chance, said organizer Terry Huffman. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be available. And hopefully, Anthony can attend to see the community’s love and support.

Eric believes seeing friends and support will be important to his son’s outlook.

“I’m going to do everything I can to get him there,” Eric said. “I think it would be important to him to get out. When we see people, they always smile. That makes him feel better.”

Melrose Heritage Park is at 300 State Road 26.