Tristan Phillips hasn’t been to school much this semester.

He has been making trips to Atlanta every week for kidney dialysis while he waits for a kidney transplant.

Naomi Lassiter’s seventh-grade class from Feagin Mill Middle School decided to help defray some of the costs by hosting a Zumba party.

The event will be held Saturday in the school’s cafeteria from 9-11 a.m. with registration starting at 8:30 a.m.

The cost is $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

Teacher Lindsey Jones, who is co-sponsoring the event with Hands Across Houston County, said there will be vendors as well as a raffle to raise money.

She hopes the event will raise at least $1,000 for Phillips.

Right now, Tristan has a blood clot that will need to be resolved before the transplant can take place., said his mother, Tanya Phillips. His mother hopes they will receive good news in May, when he is re-evaluated.

Tristan, who has spinal bifida, has played on the Houston County Sharks team in the past.

“We are trying to drum up support for Tristan,” Lassiter said.

Tristan is an inspiration to everyone who meets him, she said, and the students in her homeroom felt the need to do something.

“He’s full of spirit and loves to be here,” she said.

Tanya Phillips is overwhelmed by the support of the school as well as the community.

“I’m in awe and just at a loss for words,” she said.