When a Powell mother of two went in for what should have been a simple procedure on Jan. 26 she learned the road ahead was going to be anything but simple.

Ariel MaGill, who is 31, has had a mass in her sternoclavicular joint since she was 26. For at least the last six months a staph and strep infection developed in the joint.

After learning the joint was septic and going through a series of tests, her doctor found the infection had gotten into MaGill’s bones. In seven days she had three surgeries. Part of MaGill’s sternum was removed along with her left clavicle head and part of her first rib. Now home, MaGill is receiving vacuum assisted wound recovery therapy for the next three to six weeks and has been unable to work.

MaGill waitressed at WYOld West for nearly three years and has been dubbed the staff’s favorite “retired” server. When her friends at WYOld West heard about MaGill’s condition through a GoFundMe page created by MaGill’s sister Kadie Bedford, they decided to turn their annual special for National Margarita Day on Wednesday into a fundraiser for MaGill. The event has been rescheduled for  Friday.

General manager Jessica Laughlin joked that MaGill likes her margaritas, along with the rest of the brewery’s team. 

Laughlin said head chef Ryan Gutierrez and front of the house manager Shallan Bartle took charge of the fish tacos and margaritas respectively. Gutierrez had the idea for the fish tacos which will be served with his special grilled pineapple salsa. Margaritas can be ordered individually or as flights. Both items will be on sale all day Wednesday with 100% of the proceeds going to MaGill and her family.

“Thank you for everybody’s donations and kind words and prayers,” said MaGill, who added she appreciates the community and the support  they are willing to give.

To keep up with MaGill and donate independently visit her GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/ariel-magills-medical-emergency.