In addition to finishing an internship to complete his college degree from Slippery Rock University, Ingram resident Joe Chesno is facing a second stem cell transplant in as many years.
In 2013, the 2009 Montour High School graduate and former football player was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After the disease recurred, the community is rallying to help with medical expenses with a fundraiser, Montour Strong for Joe, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the high school campus, 223 Clever Road, Robinson.
“The recurrences are brutal; for Joe, for his family and for friends,” said Fino Caliguire, 24, who became friends with Mr. Chesno in middle school and during their days on the Spartan football team.
“We wanted the cost to be the last thing he has to worry about,” said Mr. Caliguire, the man behind the event. “Let us help with the cost as much as we can. We’re sure positive, for Joe’s sake.”
Mr. Caliguire said dozens of people and organizations are coming together to work on the benefit.
“He’s a Montour kid, he’s a Montour football player and he’s in need,” said Dean Caliguire, Fino’s uncle, who is school board president. “That’s what we as a community should do. As a community, as a school district we are rallying together.”
The event is being held prior to antibody treatments for Mr. Chesno’s impending transplant.
The school district has partnered with Central Blood Bank and Robinson Emergency Medical Service to host the event that includes a bone marrow swab testing program and a blood replenishment drive. From 9 to 10:30, there also will be a Fit Fest consisting of 30-minute sessions of boot camp, cardio and yoga programs. Child care will be available for participants.
A family swim will follow until 1 p.m. in the high school pool. Children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
There also will be food vendors, music, fitness activities, a family luau and a dunk tank along with raffles for restaurant packages, Pittsburgh sports-related items and other prizes.
Cost is $15 in advance or $20 at the door.
Information or donations: tinyurl.com/montourstrongforjoe or 412-527-0707.
Sonja Reis, freelance writer: suburbanliving@post-gazette.com.
First Published: August 28, 2015, 4:00 a.m.
