Chelaine McInroy, riding 'Bud' in the 2016 photo.

(CHARLOTTE HELSTON / iNFOnews.ca)

Six years after Armstrong athlete Chelaine McInroy lost her leg due to an infection of the bone, the former member of Canada’s para-alpine ski team is back in the hospital and requires an above-knee amputation.

In 2016, McInroy underwent a below-the-knee amputation after being diagnosed with osteomyelitis and sepsis – a life-threatening infection of the blood.

"It was a life-changing surgery requiring costly prosthetics and therapy," Steve Smith and Laura McInroy said in a media release. "The Armstrong community rallied and raised enough money to purchase an athletic-style prosthetic for her."

READ MORE: Armstrong athlete back doing what she loves after losing leg

In 2016, various clubs held a dinner that raised almost $10,000, and another fundraiser raised $2,300.

Now, six years later, following numerous surgeries and reoccurring infections, McInroy found out in March that the infection had remained unnoticed and dormant and she now required an above-knee amputation.

"She now requires adaptations to her home – a wheelchair ramp and modified bathroom, as well as brand new prosthetics to accommodate her new level of amputation," the media release said.

Following on from how the community rallied in 2016, a new fundraising goal has been set at $100,000 and kicks off with a benefit concert on June 25 held at the Hassen Arena at the Armstrong Fairground.

The concert will feature local bands a silent auction and raffle, food services, and a beer garden. There will also be multiple activities leading up to the concert with numerous ways to get involved.
 
Organizers are looking for volunteers to help put on the event, along with donations for the silent auction and raffle items, as well as business and personal sponsorships at various levels.

"Anything you can do to help us achieve our goal will be recognized, promoted, and valued," the release says.

The organizers for the event can be contacted at stevesmithmusic@gmail.com or laura_mcinroy@hotmail.com.

All donations are put in trust at the Valley First Credit Union branch in Armstrong. E-transfers can be made to: lifelimblyrics@gmail.com.

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