Big surprise for Tifton family in need - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Big surprise for Tifton family in need

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By Wainwright Jeffers - bio | email

TIFTON, GA (WALB) – Volunteers were up early Saturday morning in Tifton working to raise money to buy a handicapped accessible van for a 12-year-old boy.

Many of you have already heard of Lottyn Bates and his family's pursuit to find a cure for a rare neurological disorder he suffers from.

The fundraiser was supposed to get the Bates' family one step closer to a van they desperately need for Lottyn.

But they got a surprise, The the Georgia Firebirds semi-pro football team donated their team van to the family.

The community was trying to raise At least $30,000 to$40,000 to buy one.

"His sclerosis has progresses this year and it's safer for him to sit in his wheelchair," said Magaen Bates, Lottyn's mom.

"It's a good cause, Lottyn is a native of Tifton and we've had a lot of involvement over the years," said Terence Fowler, Firebirds General Manager.

The Georgia Firebirds are partnering with the Change Foundation to have the donated vehicle customized for Lottie.

His mother says they want to continue the fundraisers to help other families in need.

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