A concert is being held in Okotoks to build memories for a local family.

The "Fill Kolton's Bucket Fundraiser Gig" is being held for the Byerley family, who have been sharing updates on their son Kolton's cancer diagnosis since May of 2022.

In August, they shared the news that an MRI had revealed the terminal cancer surrounding his brain and spinal column. 

The Byerleys are now trying to spend as much time making memories with Kolton as possible doing the things he loves most.

Local mother Sandy Grunleitner, who's behind the fundraiser concert, says she wants to make sure money isn't an issue during that time.

"We are trying to raise funds for them to make it possible to, let's say, close the store on short notice for a couple of days and go somewhere with Kolton, or to make it possible to purchase certain things, memory-making events, whatever they choose to do with the time they have left."

Other members of the community have been keen to help out.

The Okotoks Elks have provided their space for free, and the event will be making the most of it.

"The Elks Community Hall with where we're going to have the concert, then in the Heritage Room we'll have a silent auction set up, and in the lounge, there will be food items and non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages for purchase. It is an all-ages event so the alcohol will be contained to that one area," says Grunleitner.

There are three musical acts on tap: Michela Sheedy, Gratuitous, and Vicarious Vandalism.

Various local residents and businesses have provided items for the silent auction.

"We have pieces of art being auctioned off, we have gift cards for local businesses, we have services. Okotoks Ford donated a certificate for detailing, Okotoks Tinting has donated a ceramic coating package. We also have bakeries that are going to make baskets of yummy treats to auction off. Austen Jewellers has donated a piece of jewellery. We have paintings, wood art, lots of fun stuff."

It's being held at the Elk's Hall Okotoks on October 21, from 5-9 p.m.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite, and more information can be found on the event's Facebook page.

Inquiries and donations can be sent to okotoks.bucketfiller@gmail.com

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