Community pulls together for Dunklin newspaper sports editor

KENNETT, Mo. — As Mike Buhler, sports editor for the Daily Dunklin Democrat lies in a hospital in Poplar Bluff, Mo., the community of Kennett has pulled together to help Mike in his time of need.

Following an automobile accident between Joiner, Ark., and Interstate Highway 55 on July 5, Buhler was hospitalized in Memphis suffering from a broken wrist, cracked tailbone, and was bruised and swollen on various parts of his body. His vehicle was totaled and unfortunately his camera equipment is presumed lost.

After hearing about the accident, many people in the community took it upon themselves to help raise money for Buhler in his time of need.

Charley and Charolyn Hillburn and their children Bud and Hadley, opened a lemonade stand Wednesday in front of Baker Farm and Hardware in Kennett. After just a few hours, they had raised nearly $400 for Buhler.

Donations were also accepted at the Kennett Swim Team meet Saturday.

Susan Luce at the Dunklin County Courthouse, Kim Hughes at the Dunklin County Health Center and Angela Branum at Sam William's law office are also accepting donations on Buhler's behalf.

On July 10, Buhler was released from the hospital in Memphis but was readmitted to the Poplar Bluff hospital later that evening.

Buhler has been in rehab for a little more than a week and is doing better. He had minor surgery for his wrist on Friday.

According to Buhler, he is supposed to be released from the hospital today, but will remain out of work for a few more weeks.

When asked what he thought about everything the community has been doing, Buhler responded, "I appreciate it, it means so much."