Augusta Celebrates Halloween Early for Local Boy Ahead of Surgery
Last night was truly an inspirational event and makes me so proud to be part of this community.
Connor Sawtelle is a 6-year-old boy from Augusta who suffers from a condition called Chiari Malformation. This condition puts great strain on his brain and spine. Essentially, Chiari Malformation forces the brain out of the skull and down into the spine. As you can imagine, this can be incredibly painful. At this time there is no cure but there are treatments and procedures that assist in alleviating the pain.
Connor is gearing up for yet another surgery to combat the pain. It's his 6th brain surgery and 5th spinal surgery. Again, Connor is just 6-years-old.
Due to the pain he suffers daily, he struggles to live the life of the average kid. He'll still be recovering from his surgeries in New York City during Halloween so he'll miss trick or treating. Like any kid, he wanted his shot at dressing up and getting some candy.
His mom, Erika, reached out to the community and in just over a week the #SawtelleStrong Trunk or Treat came together. Texas Roadhouse hosted by opening up their parking lot. Connor has a passion for animals so he invited those who attended to bring items for the Kennebec Valley Humane Society (KVHS). Donators were rewarded with coupons for free appetizers at Texas Roadhouse.
Spot spaces filled up fast with community members, Central Church, WMTW, Ghostbusters, Augusta Public Works, the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association, Augusta Police, Kennebec Sheriffs, State Police, multiple fire departments, Townsquare Media, and others.
Kids in costume and their families came out in droves to donate to KVHS, see the trunks, emergency, vehicles, support Connor, and of course, get that candy!
Also present at the event, News Center Maine, Andy the Texas Roadhouse Armadillo, Stephen Betters of Lemonade for Kids, Mrs. Maine USA, Mrs. New England USA, Ms. Maine USA, and Santa Claus!
According to Erika, Connor had a great time and was so happy to see everyone there. Connor isn't the only one in his family with Chairi. His sisters have it too, as well as Erika. Keep up to date on the family and Connor's journey at their Sawtelle Strong Facebook page.
Happy Halloween, Connor. Wishing you all the best in New York.