Double C’s raises money for member undergoing chemotherapy

By PAMELA GRANT
Cove Leader-Press 

Dancing enthusiasts from across Texas and some from even farther away came together to square dance for a cause.
Copperas Cove Double C’s held an event at the Copperas Cove Public Library Friday night to raise money for Linda Duckworth. Duckworth was diagnosed with breast cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy. She is expected to be out of work for six months. Attendees donated however much they wanted to, with all money going to help Duckworth with both medical costs and living expenses.
Copperas Cove Double C’s made the event extra special by having several callers including Ron Wesche from Copperas Cove, Dan Clairmont from Georgetown, Dale Smith from Waco, and Gary Bible from Austin. 
Some of the callers call for square dance events across America and can charge hundreds of dollars for an event, but they all donated their time on Friday.
In addition to Double C’s, several other square-dancing groups attended the event including members from the Killeen Kickers, Waco Singles, Coryell Squares, Texas Independent Plus Squares, and more. 
“This event is to raise money for one of our members, Linda Duckworth,” said Double C’s treasurer, Mary Wesche. “She’s an extremely upbeat, wonderful person. She’s one of the friendliest, nicest people I know. She has kids and grandkids that are her whole world.”
“My mom’s an awesome person. She touches every single person that she knows,” said Mylinda Miller, Linda Duckworth’s daughter. “She’s 70 years old, and she acts like she’s 10.”
Others echoed the positive comments, several describing her as an amazing person with a sense of humor. Dozens of dancers showed up in support of Duckworth, filling the dance floor.
“One thing I’ve noticed with the square-dancing community is that everyone is like family,” said Rose King-Wesche. “Any time somebody needs help, they’re always there.”
King-Wesche noted that the turnout was even greater than what she and other Double C’s members had hoped for.
Those interested in learning more about square-dancing or attending classes for free square-dancing lessons can do so at the Copperas Cove Public Library January 8, 15, and/or 22 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Ronald Wesche, a member of the Texas State Caller’s Association, teaches the square-dancing class.
“It’s America’s dance,” said Wesche. “I’m recovering from a heart attack, and it’s how I get my cardio…Square dancing staves off Alzheimer’s, it helps those recovering from heart attacks, strokes, cancer. It’s a mental and a physical challenge at the same time.”