Fundraiser for McCloskey's Bartender on Sunday

On Sunday, April 3, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.,  will host a fundraiser for longtime bartender, new father, and recent recipient of a kidney transplant Paddy Dougherty.

As covered  last month, Dougherty had a turbulent winter. After he was diagnosed with kidney failure following a routine blood workup, Dougherty's wife gave birth to the couple's first child on December 30. Finally on Valentine's Day, Dougherty received a kidney transplant from his brother Liam.

Though Dougherty is well on his way to a full recovery —"He's doing really well. He's starting to take some shifts back, and he's starting to come back to work every once in a while, so he's doing great," said Paddy's brother Phil Dougherty— it was a large expense (especially simultaneous to the birth of a first child) and so the fundraiser was organized in the interest of defraying it.

As part of the fundraiser, McCloskey's has filled a jar with golf balls and is taking guesses on the amount therein. Prizes include a pair of Phillies tickets, a $50 gift certificate to Bridgewater Restaurant, a golf package, a box of lobster tails, and a Desean Jackson autographed football. There will also be a silent auction, raffles, and door prizes.

Yuengling and Coors Light drafts will also be available for a dollar each during the event.

Phil Dougherty said the family is touched by the outpouring of support for Paddy.  

"We're doing really well [with donations]," said Phil. "We've had some great donations."

He also added that the family, many of whom have flown in from far-flung corners, is looking forward to Sunday's benefit. 

"They're all gonna be there tomorrow. My brother Liam, who donated his kidney, is gonna be there tomorrow. It should be really nice."