Posted: 11/5/03

Pancake feed will help Andersen boy

When the Columbus Lions flip flapjacks on Nov. 16, they will be working to raise needed funds for a little boy.

The benefit breakfast at the Columbus Senior Center will raise funds for Austin Andersen, 3, of Lino Lakes. Austin continues to require medical treatment following a June incident when he was mauled by a dog while on vacation with his family in Missouri.

The boyís skull was crushed by the dog and he received other injuries, as well. A string of medical procedures and surgeries have followed for the boy.

During the first surgery after the attack, a piece of Austinís skull had to be removed to clean the part of his brain that controls his speech. Because of swelling and the chance of infection, the piece of skull could not be replaced at the time of the first surgery.

An incision was made in Austinís side and the piece of skull was stored under the skin for safekeeping.

On Oct. 6, the boy underwent another surgery to replace that skull piece back in his head where it belonged. It is being held in place with titanium plates and tiny screws.

Austin is the son of Cassie and Tom Andersen. He is the grandson of Jim and Toni Pankratz of Columbus and the great-grandson of Cel Daninger, Forest Lake.

ìAlthough he is doing great now and recovering quickly, he will have some lifetime restrictions,î Toni Pankratz said. ìBecause of the plates and screws in his head, he will never be able to play contact sports or be involved in any vigorous activities.î

Benefit details

The pancake breakfast sponsored by the Columbus Lions on Sunday, Nov. 16 will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Columbus Senior Center on Kettle River Blvd.

Cost of the breakfast is $3.50 for adults, $3 for children and $10 for a family.

All proceeds will be used for medical expenses and future problems that Austin may develop.

An account for Austin is also in service at TCF Bank in Forest Lake. Donations can be made to the Austin Andersen Benefit Account, P.O. Box 426, 1186 W. Broadway Ave., Forest Lake, MN 55025, or at any TCF Bank office.

Donations can also be sent to Jim and Toni Pankratz, 17384 Kettle River Blvd., Forest Lake, MN 55025.

Top of Page