When Sterling Heights Police learned that 11-year-old Noah Gochanou could use a little holiday cheer, officers immediately began planning a surprise home visit they hope will lift the young man’s spirits. Noah has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Officers are working with Noah’s parents to plan a surprise visit to their home in Sterling Heights on Saturday, Dec. 9. Sterling Heights Police Department is working closely with the Sterling Heights Fire Department to bring a number of Police cars and Fire trucks to make the event memorable. SHPD has also invited Police Chaplain Pastor Herb Harbaugh to say a prayer for Noah and his family at the event. SHPD had special shirts made for Noah and his family that they plan to give the young man on Saturday.
Staging for the event will begin at Noon on Saturday, Dec. 9 in the parking lot at 18 Mile and Ryan Roads. Once all City vehicles are ready, the cars will drive to Noah’s home located in the 40000 block of Kristen Drive. Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski said the department plans to provide about 10 police vehicles. Dwojakowski added that officers are also donating money to the family to help offset medical bills and holiday purchases.
Noah has been fighting a cancer called Ewing's Sarcoma since 2014. Ewing's Sarcoma is a very rare type of cancerous tumor that grows in bones or the soft tissue around bones, such as cartilage or the nerves. Noah’s family and friends have Facebook and GoFundMe pages dedicated to sharing his story and raising money to help with medical expenses. They are available here:
Noah's Facebook Page and events:
•https://www.facebook.com/noahsbattleewings/
•https://www.eventbrite.com/e/comedy-4-cancer-presents-a-mission-of-laughter-tickets-38867546879
•https://www.gofundme.com/noahs-wish-list
Media with further questions can contact Community Relations Director Bridget Kozlowski at bkoz@sterling-heights.net or (586) 446-2471.