Carnival for JAKE JOHNSON

There is a carnival this weekend for Mitch's friend/coworker's son Jake. He has been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 4. All of the proceeds are going to help his family with the cost of treatment. If anyone is looking for something fun to do this weekend come!

Saturday, May 30th, 10am-4pm

at

Heber City Park on Main Street

There will be live music, inflatables, face painting, carnival games, food, drinks... FUN!!!


Here is Jake's story...


In August, at the age of 4, Jake Johnson was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma. This is a cancer of the muscle and connective tissue. Jake has a tumor that cannot be removed because it is so large and because it has grown into his spine, rectum and skin. Since this is a very aggressive form of cancer, Jake’s treatment is long and arduous. He is undergoing 40 weeks of chemotherapy, which requires overnight stays in the hospital, and has completed 6 weeks of daily radiation. After the chemo is finished, he will still have 5-6 years of extensive testing and treatment to insure that the cancer doesn’t return.

So far, Jake has endured numerous tests, which will continue throughout his treatment. He has been through 3 surgeries, and will need at least one more. Jake’s blood is tested twice a week. When his red counts are too low, he needs blood transfusions. He also takes a lot of medication and requires home health care.

The Johnson’s do have insurance, but they still have to pay a portion of these medical expenses, which have already surpassed $500,000. Primary Children’s Hospital has warned them that their insurance will run out before this is finished. In addition to the medical costs, the fuel expenses are also significant since Jake goes to Primary Children’s Hospital several times a week. Jake’s dad, LaVell, works in the construction industry. While he has been fortunate enough to avoid his company’s recent layoffs, he did receive a $1,500 per month pay cut, which has turned a difficult situation into an impossible one. In March, the Johnson's insurance premiums doubled, as did their deductibles and co-payments.

An account has been set up at Zion’s Bank to help with Jake’s medical bills. The account is under “Jake Johnson #9366”. Any help at all will relieve some of the stress so the Johnson’s can focus on their little boy!

On Saturday May 30th from 10-4 at the Heber City Park we will have a Community Sponsored Carnival to help support Jake Johnson. This is event is sponsored by a local non-profit church and donations are tax deductible.