By TRINA RUNNER
News & Journal Staff Writer
For Ryan and Katie Haws of Bridgeport, the words “mass”, “more tests” and “surgery” have entered their lives more than any family should have to hear. Their son Noah was born prematurely six months ago and they knew to expect some complications.
After Noah did not progress as expected, tests were ordered and precancerous masses were found on little Noah’s kidney. The kidney was removed, but he continued to have problems breathing. A month later, Noah’s one remaining kidney was found to have 11 masses. He was taken to The Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, where a top specialist in the field could aggressively treat him.
He started intensive chemotherapy treatments immediately and continues to struggle with respiratory issues. Despite his breathing tube and nausea from the chemotherapy, Noah is making some progress and the doctor has noticed some shrinkage of larger tumors. Throughout the ordeal, little Noah is not the only one showing his strength. Friends, family, his siblings and parents have pulled together to offer support and resources, and especially prayers.
The Haws family is known for their generosity and kindness whenever they hear of anyone in need. Now, it is their turn to receive the blessings of others helping them out. Fellow church members, friends and family have organized some fundraisers to help offset the cost of Noah’s medical bills as well as the travel expenses related to regular visits.
“We will be having a gun raffle for a custom-built AR 15 556-223,” said family friend Julia Southwick, who is also promoting fundraising efforts through social media. “The background check was donated by McFly Outdoors in Bridgeport and C&E Gun Show donated a booth last weekend for us to sell tickets. Tickets are $10 each and you don’t need to be present to win, but you do have to be at least 18 years old.”
To purchase tickets, call Scott Stewart at 304-841-4611 or Newman Pauley at 304-816-8022.
On March 26, there will be a Benefit Dinner and Silent Auction at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Arthur Avenue in Clarksburg from 12:30p.m. to 3:30p.m.
“We will be serving spaghetti with homemade meatballs and sauce, salad, bread and cake,” said Southwick. Tickets will not be sold at the door but can be purchased by calling Jerri Vincent at 304-709-0355 or Marissa Stewart at 435-749-2526. For those over 13 years old, tickets are $10, $5 for those 5-12 and free for those under five.
Those wishing to make monetary donations are encouraged to visit www.gofundme.com/noahisafighter. Additional information about Noah’s medical journey can be found at www.facebook.com/AdventuresofNoah/?fref=ts.
