By Nathan Prewett
North Jefferson News
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A weekend fund-raiser was held by the Cane Creek Fire Department and successfully raised money for Hunter Alexander, the Smokerise youngster who suffers from brain cancer.
The event raised about $1,000 which went toward Hunter’s medical expenses. It attracted people who wanted to help Hunter, and at the same time enjoyed food and entertainment for children, including games and horse riding. A live band provided music.
Hunter was not able to attend because he was hospitalized for low white blood cell count. His father, Scot, and brother, Micah, arrived as a busy crowd began to form.
He said that funds raised in the past have helped pay for necessary equipment, including a wheelchair for Hunter.
“There are things down the road that we’re going to need,” Alexander said. “It’s comforting to know that you’ve got something for expenses.”
April and Charles Reno, close friends of the Alexanders, organized the fundraiser. April Reno expressed gratitude for the people who participated.
“I just want to thank everybody for coming out and supporting him,” she said. “Thank you for all the prayers and everything you’ve done. None of it will ever be forgotten.”
It was last year when Hunter, 9, found out that he had medulablastoma, a tumor that grows in children. Since then he has garnered national and international support from thousands of people as he fights the illness. He has received postcards from people in other nations.
“We’ve really been blessed with all the support,” said Alexander. “It’s a source of strength to have people praying for him.”
Hunter remains in the hospital and is slowly improving day by day, his father said. Hunter has a page called “Prayers for Hunter Alexander” on Facebook.
