Benefit to aid in Cole Whitworth’s recovery

Cole smiles outdoors with family at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital last month after the surgery when the tumor was removed. Cole is pictured with the drainage tube on the right top of his head. (Courtesy photo)

By Lailani Upham

POLSON — Over a month ago, six-year old Cherry Valley Elementary student, ColeJene Whitworth was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Within four days he was rushed to surgery to have it removed.

Whitworth was diagnosed with highly malignant brain tumor called Medulloblastoma and is currently recovering at the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Spokane, Wash., where his mother, Cecile LaFromboise, and father, Cale Whitworth is staying close by his side.

Young Cole began chemo and radiation this past Monday in Spokane. “My life is a nightmare right now, but I have hope, faith and prayers,” stated his mother Cecile.

The treatment plan requires Cole to stay in Spokane for one year for chemotherapy and radiation, according to his mother, Cecile.

Cole’s older sister Alyssa and older brother Kadence, have remained in the area with relatives for school while their parents are at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital with their baby brother.

Shelly Croft, a friend of the family has organized a benefit dinner and auction held at the KwaTaqNuk tor raise money for the treatments and the opportunity for the family to be near Cole as much as possible.

“We are asking for your support in helping with prayers and donations so that his family can be with him for long periods of time.”

Cole, who is also known in the Indian way as Long Time Plume (MeSahMeeSahPope), is very involved in his traditional ways, says his family. He is a soccer player and loves Legos and computers.

The benefit dinner will be held at KwaTaquNuk on Saturday October 20th. Cocktail hour will be from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dinner will be at 7 p.m.; and a live auction will begin at 8.

Tickets are $10 per person and are available at Glacier Brewery.

For more information, contact Shelly Croft at 250-9060.