Exeter Community Bands Together With Benefit Concert For Teenager Recovering From An Accident

EXETER, NH — On July 25, local indie folk rock band The Midnight Wrens performed a benefit concert and silent auction at The Word Barn in Exeter.

The evening’s proceeds went to support Oscar Grossman, an Exeter teenager who is recovering from a devastating accident. On Feb. 5, Oscar fell 25 feet off a ladder while working at a job site through the Seacoast School of Technology (SST). He sustained a traumatic brain injury and a broken neck, back, and skull. He is now undergoing intensive rehabilitation at Spaulding Rehabilitation in Boston and faces a long road to recovery.

Organizers of the benefit, led by family friend Andrea Roenick, aimed to raise $15,000 to help the Grossman family modify their home for Oscar’s eventual return and cover medical expenses. The night was an extraordinary success and surpassed organizers’ initial fundraising goal, ultimately raising $20,000 for Oscar.

The Midnight Wrens, known for their rich vocal harmonies, were the evening’s headliner. The band includes Sue Fitzgerald, who is also a Move-In Specialist at RiverWoods Exeter, and vocalist Tom Powley, a local teacher and close friend of the Grossman family.

“Community means everything to The Midnight Wrens — we wouldn’t be a band without it,” said Fitzgerald. “Participating in Oscar’s fundraiser is a way for us to show our love and support for the Grossman family, an integral part of the community of Exeter, and the state of New Hampshire.”

Oscar’s mother, state Rep. Gaby Grossman, represents Exeter in the New Hampshire Legislature.

The evening also included a silent auction and food provided by Lexie’s Burger Bus. Those who weren’t able to attend the concert can still help by contributing to a GoFundMe campaign to help Oscar and his family.

About RiverWoods Exeter

RiverWoods Exeter is part of The RiverWoods Group. Dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults, The RiverWoods Group provides vibrant communities offering a continuum of care—from independent living to assisted living, memory support, and nursing care—ensuring residents have peace of mind for their future healthcare needs. Guided by a volunteer board of trustees, the organization emphasizes inclusive thinking, persistence, and a forward-focused approach, continually seeking innovative ways to serve and support its residents. Learn more at riverwoodsnh.org.

Submitted by RiverWoods Exeter