Bob Evans Fun Night to benefit woman awaiting lung transplant

Until recently, Tina Carkido attended a community college near Cleveland with plans to transfer to a four-year university and work as an animal-rescue officer.

All those ambitions are on hold, however, because of continual lung infections the 24-year-old former Mahoning Valley woman suffers as the result of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease in which thick mucus forms in the lungs, pancreas and other organs.

The mucus typically blocks the airways, which usually leads to lung damage and difficulty breathing.

Instead of pursuing her dreams that include helping abused and neglected animals, Carkido, who was born with the disease, is dreaming of being able to breathe much more easily — with a set of new lungs.

Carkido, of North Royalton in Cuyahoga County, is on a list to receive a double-lung transplant at the Cleveland Clinic.

Tuesday, a fundraiser will take place at Bob Evans Community Fun Night iin Boardman from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

For details and Carkido's full story, read today's Vindicator or Vindy.com.