CHERRY CREEK — A much loved and respected member of the Pine Valley community has received a diagnosis from his physician that no one wants to hear: he has cancer.

And as often happens in a small town, especially as the proprietor of the neighborhood store, the community is lending a helping hand.

The Cherry Creek/Pine Valley family is holding a fundraiser to benefit Mendle Johnson, owner of Crossroads Grocery. The fundraiser will take place this Sunday at the Trillium Lodge, located at 6330 Main St. in Cherry Creek.

A taco bar will be open from noon-2 p.m. featuring tacos with all the popular fixings.

Sally’s Karaoke will be entertaining from 2-5 p.m. for all those who enjoy singing the songs of their favorite recording artists.

Basket raffles and 50/50 tickets will be available all afternoon.

Since he is self-employed, and this is a catastrophic illness, the expenses are far greater than the financial resources available.