Dozens of Navassa residents create memorable Christmas celebration for mother battling cancer
NAVASSA, NC (WWAY) — For many, Christmas is a time for hope and spreading cheer.
That’s what lots of people in Navassa set out to do Thursday night by hosting a parade with decorated cars, and of course, jolly ole Saint Nick, all for the McCain family.
“I just thought it was just the fire truck pulling in here accidentally,” said 38-year-old Heather McCain.
Back in 2018, Heather was diagnosed with breast cancer, which has since progressed to stage 4.
For her husband, Bronson, and their five children, Heather’s health journey has been long and difficult.
No one wanted the McCains to wait until the 25th of December to celebrate the holidays this year, so they made sure Christmas came early, one decorated car after another.
Parade organizer Kristen Brooks was happy to see so many people take part.
“There’s good people out here who, you know, want to help and want to put smiles on people’s faces,” Brooks said.
Bronson said he couldn’t believe what had been done for his family.
“I’m happy, I’m just amazed about everything that happened,” Bronson said. “My kids got so many gifts today, the love we’ve been getting, from support and all that from everybody, I’m just appreciative, humbled, and happy.”
And Heather said she was happy to see so many people supporting her.
“I’m ecstatic, this is amazing to see all the love. It’s really cool.”
Joey Upchurch grew up with Bronson and Heather and took part in the parade.
He said the event meant just as much to the participants’ families as it did to the McCains.
“The thing I hope they get out of the most is just to hold onto your loved ones cause you never know what tomorrow holds,” Upchurch said.
On this one special night, these kind and generous individuals are hoping Heather and her family will know, despite the challenges they have and will face in the days ahead, that they are loved and cared for by many.
And what made Thursday even more special is that Bronson celebrated his 36th birthday, adding that it was the best birthday he’s ever had.
