Hightower continues brain cancer battle

TAB Chairman Jason Hightower, owner of KMOO Mineola, is fighting a recurrence of brain cancer.

He underwent surgery in November to remove two tumors that had developed since the first round of surgery about four years ago. Surgeons were intent on preventing the tumors from crossing lobes.

While the surgery was successful, Hightower has been undergoing extensive physical, occupational and speech therapy.

 "The legislative session is the best and most fun time to be TAB Chairman," Hightower said in December. "I'm going to get well so I can do everything possible to help make this session the success we need it to be, though I know the staff has it under control."

Hightower suffered some setbacks in recent weeks and returned to inpatient therapy.  He and his wife, Ingrid, have now decided to pursue treatment that is not covered by his health insurance.

Ben Downs, general manager of Bryan Broadcasting, has launched www.HelpJason.org to facilitate contributions to a medical fund for Hightower.

"Jason Hightower has worked every day of his life since he was 16," writes Downs. "He paid his way through Texas A&M with jobs at local radio stations before striking out on his own with KMOO Radio.

"But money is money and there's only so much a young family can do."

The website allows supporters to make contributions by PayPal or credit card.

Mineola residents are also holding a fundraising event for the Hightower family on Monday, March 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mineola Civic Center.

There will be a live auction, a silent auction, a stew, bake sale and many other opportunities for the community to help.

Please contact Amy Castleberry or Tonya Slayton at KMOO at (903) 569-3823 if interested in donating an item for the event.