THUNDER BAY – Colton Stieh isn’t about to let cancer keep him down.
The nine-year-old was diagnosed with AML leukemia five months ago and has undergone multiple treatments, including a bone marrow transplant thanks to his 10-year-old brother Connor.
However, his journey to recovery is far from over.
To help his family with the heavy financial costs they’ve burdened since the diagnosis, the local equestrian community has come together to create the Halloween Candy Hunt, an enchanted forest for children and families of all ages, and a Trail of Terror for those not afraid of what lurks in the dark.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare. We wanted to rally our community to show Colton and his family they are not fighting alone. This is the perfect time to show our support,” said Dr. Cheryl Everall, representing Amare Vita Equestrian.
“With the pandemic creating uncertainty in what to do this Halloween, we created something COVID-19 safe and fun for everyone to enjoy, especially our local hero Connor, who selflessly donated his bone marrow to help save his brother.”
Equestrians from across the region, including Amy Hoffman of Hoffman’s Hobby Farm and Carolyn Hughes of Grace Equestrian, have donated prizes and services.
The goal is to raise $5,000.
The events will take place on Halloween at Grace Equestrian at 446 Calvert Road in Murillo. The Halloween Candy Hunt will go from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and costs $30 per family, which includes two children. Each additional child is $10.
The Trail of Terror will be held from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and is $10 per person.
Prizes, a silent auction and pony rides will also be part of the activities.
Participants will be required to pre-register by phoning of texting 620-1433 and entrance fees must be paid in advance via e-transfer to [email protected].
All funds will go directly to support Colton and his family.
