HUDSON -- Sheila Wetherell understands the importance of yearly examinations.

During a July 2007 appointment, Dr. Randall Bremner discovered a lump on her throat. She went to her physician, Dr. Robert Savereide, who told her that her thyroid count was "off."

Through visits to the doctors and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Wetherell learned she had thyroid cancer.

"I had no idea that my gynecologist would discover my thyroid cancer," said Wetherell, a Hudson resident. "I thank God that I went, because if I had waited or decided to skip a year, who knows?"

During a 10-hour surgery in November 2007 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics the large tumor and Wetherell's thyroid gland were removed.

In March, Wetherell had a reoccurrence. She had another tumor removed in Iowa City and underwent six weeks of radiation.

Radiation treatments left a bad taste in Wetherell's mouth, literally.

"It's a metallic taste," she said. "It's nauseating."

Because her throat still is sore from the surgeries, Wetherell said it's difficult to swallow food.

A benefit dinner will be held Sunday to help Wetherell with the medical bills.

Audrey Ehrig, a member of the planning committee, said the decision to hold a benefit was simple.

"They're a church family, and they're in need," she said.

Wetherell has had a few odd jobs, but said it's "hard to find employment when you can't talk very well."

Ehrig said the committee hopes to raise money to help Wetherell, her husband, Joe, and their children at home, Jessica, 16, and Joseph, 14. Other children are Brandon, 26, Angie, 24, and Kim, 23.

Another committee member, Lydia Hamm, said the church committee is just returning a favor.

"Sheila has been a very, very active volunteer at our church," Hamm said. "She helps in any way she can."

Wetherell said the idea of her family being on the receiving end of a benefit is odd.

"I'm used to being on the other end," she said. "It's difficult for me to accept that I'm in that position."