SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Support and strength filled the VFW Post 25 in Scranton as the community rallied behind local Army veteran Sgt. First Class Paul Welby in his battle against esophageal cancer.
For a fundraising event, many gathered to show that they are fighting alongside ‘Welby’s War on Cancer.’
The event brought people out to share food, drinks, raffle baskets, and much more.
The fundraiser’s crowd spoke volumes, bringing an emotional response from the Welby family.
“I knew there’d be a bunch of people here. This is absolutely ridiculous. I am overwhelmed. More than I could imagine. I’m almost speechless. And that’s a lot for me,” said Gerard Welby, father of Paul Welby.
“I never expected anything like this. I was hoping for maybe 30, 40. Yeah, it’s very emotional. The whole day is emotional,” said Raymond Welby, uncle of Paul Welby.
Amid the fundraising efforts, it was the connection between people that stood out most, said Raymond Welby.
“It’s most importantly the camaraderie that’s more important than any tangible things you can get here. People here are wonderful,” said Raymond Welby.
All proceeds from the event went towards Welby’s War on Cancer.
To learn more about Sgt. First Class Paul Welby and his story, click here.