Fireworks For Hunter helps Waverly family raise money for medical bills

The Waverly community is rallying behind a family in need.

An event named Fireworks For Hunter sought to support a young boy’s family as he copes with a rare disease.

When Hunter Whisler was a baby he was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic muscle wasting disease with no known cure.

As a result of his ailment, the Whisler family travels to Ohio to see a specialist frequently, and medical expenses are piling up.

The Waverly Lions Club helped secure a space to hold the event, with a portion of the proceeds going to the family.

"It’s amazing that they want to come out and help our son. It’s really cool. We appreciate it a lot. It helps so much. I can’t even begin to say how much it helps us out," said Natalie Whisler, Hunter’s mother.

This is the second time Waverly has helped put on Fireworks For Hunter.

The stand raised thousands of dollars last July, but this year it has expanded into a public event held at Wayne Park.

Community members from all around the area stopped by to check out some fireworks and give to a good cause.

"From a father’s aspect, having everybody come out here… A lot of these people have never even seen Hunter and they are still coming out here to support him and help him out with his struggles, our struggle with bills… It’s touching," said Randy Whisler, Hunter’s father.

The event featured music, food, over thirty different vendors, Kona Ice, a petting zoo, face painting and a meet and greet with Waverly Fire and Rescue.

"It’s a really hard thing to go through. When we see that there are so many people supporting us and loving us it’s just amazing," said Natalie Whisler.

Many community members recognize Hunter and were sure to say hello and give him a few high fives along the way.

"He is kind of becoming a little celebrity out here. We want to get the word out there about Duchenne for sure," said Natalie Whisler.

The money raised will go toward Hunter’s medical expenses, medical travel and for future research into finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.