A benefit to assist Western North Carolina resident Donna Smith, recently diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease, is set for Jan. 14 at the Bird Town Recreation Center in Cherokee beginning at 7 p.m.

The Palaestra Combat Sports Club, a mixed martial arts gym in Sylva, is sponsoring the event. Fighters from Sylva, Cherokee, Franklin and Asheville will participate in nine fights, with proceeds going to help Smith and husband Ron, who is a fighter and promoter of local mixed martial arts events.

Donna Smith’s disease is rapidly progressing; she is now using a wheelchair for outings.

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