Boy with terminal illness helps feed the hungry
A 10-year-old boy battling a terminal illness in Colonie, N.Y., has used his upcoming birthday to help feed the hungry.
TimesUnion.com reports that NaSeaph Williams suffers from Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome. The rare genetic condition has weakened his muscles, heart and lungs. It has also left him unable to walk and prone to seizures. NaSeaph's mother told the paper that her son has never let his condition affect his generosity.
Laurel McAdoo, founder of Myles of Smyles, and Erin Musto, founder of Maddie's Mark, recently discovered the same thing. The duo, who the paper says both lost children to cancer in 2012, met NaSeaph at an event, learned of his amazing birthday wish, and quickly organized an early birthday party where, in accordance with NaSeaph's request, guests brought canned foods to donate to the needy.
McAdoo, whose Myles of Smyles provides support for families living in the Northeast who face serious health challenges, told the paper:
NaSeaph said he wanted to collect food for his birthday because he and his mother have received help from others. They had lived in a hotel where his hospital bed and game system were stolen, and the family got assistance to find the apartment where they now live.
Asked how he felt to see people bring the canned food he asked for, NaSeaph said, "I am happy."
The TimesUnion.com reports that NaSeaph's wishes for himself are to have a wheelchair-capable van, to be free from pain, and to meet New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and professional wrestler John Cena.
Mark Quandt, executive director of the regional food bank, told the paper: "Obviously he has been instilled with a real love and a real caring for others."
For more photos from NaSeaph's birthday, check out this photo essay from TimesUnion.com.
