INDfamily

Vermilion Parish community rallies to help beloved bus driver

by Kari Walker

Group efforts help Joana Broussard get back behind the wheel.

Joana Broussard is a school bus driver for Vermilion Parish, but sadly she didn't get to see her students off their last bus stop of the year. Since November 2012, Broussard has undergone seven surgeries related to her battle with cardiovascular disease. Her most recent operation resulted in an above the knee amputation. Her goal is to get back behind the wheel of the school bus after learning the use of a prosthetic leg through intense physical therapy. While being sidelined, the medical bills continue to come in.

Her community has since come together and organized an event to help aid and get her back to the passion of helping their children.

On Saturday, June 15, a benefit will be held at Turnley Park in Kaplan, located in the 100 block of N. Irving Street. From 10 a.m 6 p.m, supporters can enjoy music, a live auction and activities for the kids, like face painting and fun jumps. Please leave ice chests at home as beverages and dinners will be available as part of the fundraising efforts.

Anyone interested in advance purchase of dinner tickets or donating auction items is encouraged to contact Renella Hargrave at 337-643-1354 or Linda Vincent at 337-652-8463. Additional information on efforts toward Broussard's aid can be found online.