Touch-a-Truck fundraiser raises money for local 2-year-old with rare heart condition

TRIADELPHIA, W.Va. (WTRF) — In July of this year, 2-year-old Laiden Schaefer suffered two cardiac arrests due to a rare heart condition. After a miraculous recovery, Laiden still faces long-term complications.

To help the family with their medical bills, the McMechen Volunteer Fire Department partnered with Quaker Steak and Lube to host the Touch-a-Truck fundraiser.

Trucks of all kinds were on display for friends and family to check out.

Fire Chief John Davis says the fire department is always here to help their members.

“We received an overwhelming support from our community, and we were able to get him the AED.”

John Davis, Fire Chief for the McMechen Volunteer Fire Department

“McMechen has been amazing to us, they have done so much for us. They purchased the AED that we have to carry around for him now. It’s truly a miracle what happened, I mean he’s defied all the odds that have been presented against him and he’s doing phenomenal.”

Chaz Schaefer and Josephyne Coen, Laiden’s parents

Laiden’s parents say he has a long road ahead of him, but they’re happy with his progress.

All donations for Laiden can be dropped off at the McMechen Volunteer Fire Department.

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