Proceeds from a StagePlay production of “No Strings Attached,” and a raffle prize drawing, will benefit Megan Britton. Both will be held Saturday, May 12, at Oak View Community Center Theater, 4625 West 110^th Street, Oak Lawn, beginning at 7 pm. 

Ten-year-old Megan Britton has a condition called arteriovenous malformation (AVM)—an abnormal connection between veins and arteries. It was discovered in April 2010 when she collapsed form a stroke while playing outside her home in Alsip. She was rushed to the hospital to coil the AVM to stop the bleeding and temporarily remove a bone flap to allow her brain to swell. 

While still struggling to walk and talk again, and suffering from fatigue, memory loss and limited mobility on her right side, Megan signed up for a StagePlay production. According to her mother, Tammy, it keeps her focused and motivated. 

“She has to work ten times harder than anyone else and has an amazingly positive attitude,” says StagePlay director Monica Minogue. “She never complains, and keeps on smiling despite the challenges she faces.” 

Monica recalls, “I saw the pride and pure joy on Megan’s face as she walked onstage in the role of Balthasar in the production.” 

A recent surgery removed the AVM, greatly diminishing the possibility of another stroke, but another surgery was required to replace the bone flap that shifted. Megan’s parents were devastated, and Megan herself was heartbroken to learn that she will be unable to perform with StagePlay again until after she makes yet another lengthy recovery. 

The performance on May 12 will benefit her and her family who are facing more than $700,000 in medical bills. Their financial situation is worsened by her mother’s inability to work due to Megan’s medical needs. 

Raffle prizes include two Chicago Getaway Packages, including a hotel stay, restaurant gift certificates, and admission passes, as well as many other prizes. More than $2,000 will be given away in prizes. 

Raffle tickets are $5 each, 5 for $20, or 15 for $40. Admission tickets are $10 in advance, or $15 at the door. All tickets can be purchased by calling Monica Minogue at StagePlay, 815.954.3228. 

“No Strings Attached” is a musical based on the story of Pinocchio. Performing in the production are forty-five children from Oak Lawn and neighboring communities.  

StagePlay: Musical Theater for Kids! offers children aged 5 through 15 the opportunity to participate in productions through various park districts. Details are at stageplaykids.com.