September Fundraiser to Support Marathon Survivor Bauman and Rescuer

Jeff Bauman and his family will forever be grateful to Carlos Arredondo, the man who helped save the Chelmsford native’s life during the bombings that rocked the Boston Marathon finish line earlier this year. Thanks to a September fundraising event, they’ll have a chance to express their gratitude in a very tangible way.

The Bauman family is planning a fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 3-11 p.m. at the Westford American Legion. Proceeds will be split down the middle to pay medical bills for Bauman, who lost both of his legs during the bombings, and to help with living expenses for Arredondo, the man who is credited with helping save Bauman’s life.

“This is our way of thanking Carlos for saving Jeffrey's life,” said event organizer Jennifer Maybury, Bauman’s aunt. “He acted as a hero during this senseless and tragic act.”

About 350 tickets were sold for the event, which will feature a 50-50 drawing, silent auction items, a raffle table and a door prize. There are items such as a vacation to Disney, a $12,000 mountain bike, sports memorabilia from the Boston Red Sox, and more.

Maybury said she still needs help from the community locating a variety of other donations for the event. She is looking to find baskets, which can be filled with anything. Examples of baskets that can be raffled off are baskets with children’s items, candles, liquor, or food, though Maybury joked “we’re not picky.”

Anyone interested in donating to the cause can email jenncole18@verizon.net.

Bauman has made huge strides in his recovery since he suffered serious injuries at the Boston Marathon. Still, it’s been a difficult process for the entire family.

“We’re all healing. The bottom line is that we are so happy Jeffrey is alive,” said Maybury. “What’s happened will change him forever. It’s a long journey ahead. We’re all doing as well as we can. Four lives were taken, and that is four too many. We’re blessed to see so many survivors.”

According to Maybury, in addition to raising money for Bauman and Arredondo, the September event has another purpose. 

“We want the world to know he is a fighter,” said Maybury. “We’re going to overcome this.”