South Barber teachers and the Plum Thickett in Kiowa, Kansas, are working together to help defray medical and travel expenses for Nick and Deb Hitchcock. On Nov. 3, Nick underwent a heart transplant in Kansas City.

Lifelong residents of Kiowa, Nick worked as a pumper in the oil fields until health problems rendered him disabled. Deb is a longtime physical education teacher.

On Monday night, Deb's co-workers, their friends and the Plum Thickett held a Mexican buffet and auction fundraiser for the couple. Organizer Wreath Hitchcock said they raised about $11,000.

The group is still selling $20 t...