But five years ago, thanks to an expensive cochlear implant surgery, she gained the ability to hear in one ear. That is, until she lost an important part of the device. A used one was donated, but it frequently needs pricey replacement parts.

Trina Ives, whose son is also deaf and attends Capitol View Elementary School with Katanya, heard the little girl's story and decided to help. She organized a benefit concert with the goal of collecting the $9,700 needed for a brand new device and warranty.

On Sunday, 300 people attended the six-hour program throughout the day. Donors gave more than $5,000 for Katanya's device.

Katanya and her parents, Paeng and Yaeng Yingyoth, who immigrated from Laos, were unable to attend the event, but Polly Fullbright, dean of the deaf and hard-of-hearing program for Des Moines Public Schools, said the family was very thankful.

"They are very appreciative of the community for setting up this event," Fullbright said through school district sign-language interpreter Ursula Dierauer.

Fullbright added that Katanya "is a wonderful girl, pleasant and happy, and she's a great student."

Four bands - Left Hand Thread, Calous, East Eighteen and High While Driving - donated their time and hour-long sets at the benefit event. Attendees paid a $10 cover fee and there was a separate raffle and auction.

Ives said several local businesses donated items and services for the raffle and auction.

Additionally, vendors set up tables with goods and donated a percentage of their proceeds to the cause.

"I understand being frustrated with expensive medical bills," said Paula Mackey of West Des Moines, who has children and grandchildren with medical conditions. "I'm willing to help anyone out who has a problem like that."

Mackey, who sold Avon products at the event, donated all of her proceeds to Katanya.

Ives said she doesn't know the Yingyoth family well. She simply heard about their situation and wanted to help.

"I know what they're going through," said Ives, who has spent thousands of dollars for her son's hearing aids.

"It's neat that the human spirit can do that," said Tastefully Simple vendor Josie Newell about Ives' determination and the community's generosity. "You don't need to know the person, just their pain."

Dave Grisvold of Clive was unable to stay for the show, but stopped in to write a $50 check for Katanya.

"I thought about this little gal and what she's going through," said Grisvold, who heard about the event on the radio. "Once other people learn about this, they might donate, too."

Ives also has set up a bank account to raise money for the device. Donations may be sent to the Katanya Yingyoth Fund at Community Choice Credit Union, 700 E. Lyon St.

(by desmoinesregister.com)

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