PORTAGE | Bob and Nioma Conn, better known as The Gathering, have been performing in the area for many years.

They have performed at Relay for Life events and at assisted living facilities. Nioma is a five-year breast cancer survivor.

Last month, Bob Conn, 62, was rushed to the hospital after suffering a brain stem stroke. He is currently at Select Specialty Hospital in St. Margaret Mercy in Hammond. The two performed just days before his stroke.

The couple is known in the area for their singing and performing and participated in the Pierogi Fest in Whiting this year. The couple makes most of their money from playing shows at various facilities around the region.

A fundraiser has been planned to help pay for Bob Conn's medical expenses.

The fundraiser is 3 to 11 p.m. Thursday at American Legion Post 260, 5675 Mulberry Ave. The event will feature eight hours of live music from more than several local bands including Funk Shoe, Duneland Country Band, Koja Fillwock, Robb Conn, Carlos Ramos Band, Cliff "Tweet" Martin, Ryan Churchill, the Project and Ronn Barany. There will be food, raffles and a cash bar after 6 p.m. There will be a $5 donation at the door for adults.