Community Rallies Around Smithfield Councilman Facing Double Transplant

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Friends, co-workers and community members are coming together to support Smithfield Town Council member Roger Wood as he prepares for a life-saving double transplant.

Wood is expected to be placed on the transplant list within the next two weeks for both a liver and kidney transplant.

To help offset the financial burden, a BBQ plate fundraiser is planned for Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Smithfield Town Hall parking lot, 350 E. Market St. The event will be drive-through only. Plates, priced at $12, will include pulled pork, beans and slaw. Monetary donations will also be accepted.

The fundraiser is being organized by Wood’s employer, Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Clayton. Proceeds will help cover expenses related to his medical care, including travel costs to and from Duke University Hospital in Durham and temporary living expenses during his recovery.

“I’m so grateful to be associated with such supportive employers.  In addition to such loving and caring people of this community.  It’s a true reminder of how great and powerful our God can be through prayers and stewardship.  My family and I are so overwhelmed and blessed by the already outpouring of prayers and support we have already received during this time,” Councilman Wood said.

Wood’s wife, Jennifer, is expected to serve as his primary caregiver following the transplant, and both will be out of work during that time.

Advance tickets are required and must be purchased on or before April 8. Tickets are available through Coca-Cola employees, at the company’s Clayton facility, or by calling or texting 919-631-9682.

Community members say the event is an opportunity to support Wood and his family during a difficult time while helping ease the financial strain of his upcoming treatment.