Car, motorcycle show set to benefit youngster

Last year, the benefit drew some 300 cars and motorcycles and 600 to 700 spectators.

STAFF REPORT

AUSTINTOWN — The 11th annual Joshua Walker Benefit Car & Motorcycle Show is from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Emmanuel Community Church.

The church is at 6512 Kirk Road, between Turner Road and Austintown Township Park. There is no entry fee for spectators, and cars and motorcycles are registered by donation.

Joshua, 12, of Austintown, suffers from a rare disease known as metachromatic leukodystrophy, or MLD. The disease attacks the brain and nervous system, causing muscle spasms, seizures, paralysis and respiratory problems.

He was diagnosed at about 18 months old, at which time doctors estimated he would live three to six years. The Walkers, Sandy and Frank, believe Joshua has outlived the prognosis because of supplements they feed him along with their prayers and the love they give him.

Mrs. Walker said car-show proceeds pay mainly for food supplements they give Joshua, which cost about $500 a month. Also, she said the car-show participants and spectators give emotional support to the family, seeing so many people who care about Joshua.

Joshua uses a wheelchair and is unable to speak or perform any voluntary movements and must be fed through a feeding tube. His medical insurance covers part of his medical and special care expenses.

Last year, some 300 cars and motorcycles were on display at the benefit show, which drew between 600 and 700 spectators.

Show organizers are in need of donations in many areas such as items and gift certificates for the Chinese auction, participant giveaways and door prizes.

Businesses, organizations and individuals who want to help can contact Lisa Loveless, church administrator, at (330) 799-6187, to pick up donations, or they can be sent to the Joshua Walker Benefit Fund, c/o Lisa Loveless, Emmanuel Community Church, 6512 Kirk Road, Canfield, OH 44406.

Financial contributions can be made at any First National Bank office. All donations are tax-deductible and a receipt can be supplied.

Activities in addition to the car and motorcycle display include disc jockey Bob Barko Jr., a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle, bake sale, hair cut-a-thon and a children’s area.