Kriss Heiks, a 1973 graduate of Bluffton High School and 1978 graduate of Bluffton College (University), now living in Boone, N.C., was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that settled in the sinus cavity in the left side of her face.

According to Heiks, essentially the entire left side of her face was removed, including her eye, jaw and nostril.

Reconstruction surgery was performed, but failed due to a problem with her blood vessels, so she expects to undergo radiation, followed by being fitted for a facial prosthetic. 

Some of Heiks’ colleagues at Appalachian State University where she is a lecturer, have established a fund with a local bank in Boone, N,C,, to generate financial support for her ongoing medical costs. 

Kriss is the sister of Bobbie Chappell of Bluffton.

To contribute to the fund supporting Kriss, contact:
Denise Denise Dietz at Lifestore Bank 
1675 Blowing Rock Road 
Boone, NC 28607 
ddeitz@golifestore.com, or (828) 263-1504