RMHC and GOah NOAH! on Michigan Matters.
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“Goah Noah started as a grassroots event and is poised to grow,” said Jennifer Litomisky, executive director of the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit.
Renee Sullivan and Bob Wexler, each of Shelby Township, started the 5K event to help parents cope with medical crises. It is named after their son, Noah Wexler, who was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor, medulloblastoma, at age 9.
September is observed nationally as “Childhood Cancer Awareness Month” to pay tribute to children who have been diagnosed or treated for cancer as well as the parents, caregivers, physicians and health care team who care for them.
The event raises awareness of children with cancer and how services such as the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit offers a home away from home to families who are dealing with this unexpected health crisis as their children are treated at the Children’s Hospital of Detroit.
“The new House is beautiful,” Sullivan said. “It is a godsend for families in need. It’s in a great location and there is a shuttle service to the hospital. The rooms all have private showers. There’s plenty of space to relax and unwind in the large dining area and other community rooms – this helps offset the toll that being hospitalized takes on a family.”
Noah, 16, is in 10th grade at Utica High School, and considered cancer free. However, he still requires an annual MRI and close monitoring for specific symptoms.
“Noah is a great kid with a big heart who loves to help the House by being at this annual event,” said Litomisky. “He proves how resilient cancer patients and cancer survivors can be.”
“We want people of all ages to come and enjoy themselves. Bring your kids – to ride, run or walk. It’s a great family outing, whether your kids are babies, toddlers, grade schoolers or teens,” said Sullivan, who will also be joined by 14-year-old son Jack.
