BRECKSVILLE, Ohio — It’s the spookiest time of the year, but one family is using it to help other families.
The Maris family loves Halloween.
Mark Mullis has been slowly growing his front yard Halloween extravaganza since 2018.
He explained that at first it was a very small display, but then it grew to a size that overtook his entire lawn and even part of his neighbor’s lawn. He estimates it cost about $10,000 to decorate over the years.
“With the kids, we try to make it more fun. It’s not so scary. Every year we add new things. We keep saying we’re done, but every year we keep adding to it. The real estate here is also a warehouse. are becoming scarce,” Mark said.
From store-bought animatronics to DIY props, their lawn is loaded with families. The exhibit will be fully closed by October 1st and will continue until November 7th.
“We’re seeing more traffic,” Mark said.
As the appeal grew, Mark said he and his family decided to do something different this year.
“We decided this year to do it for a good cause through philanthropy,” Mark explained. “We decided to choose local residents. We heard that local families were going through difficult times. When we heard that, we immediately thought, ‘Let’s do a charity.’ Ta. We wanted to do it right away. ”
The name is “Monster Mashing for Walter.”
Who is Walter?
He is a 5-year-old boy who was recently diagnosed with a type of childhood cancer also known as high-risk stage 4 neuroblastoma.
“We met Walter’s family two years ago. My daughter was in kindergarten with one of Walter’s sisters,” Mark said. “We all support Walter and his family during this difficult time and hope he gets through this.”
Walter spent his fifth birthday at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, where he had just started his first round of chemotherapy.
Mark said he understands how filling meals can be for parents and wants to take some of the burden off Walter’s family.
“We are grateful to everyone who has donated so far. This is important in a world where we hear so much negativity, where there is so much kindness in the world, and where people want to do the right thing. I think it shows,” he added.
A GoFundMe has been set up and the Maris family is now using the PG-rated scary display as a platform for visitors to help Walter’s family during this difficult time.
“There’s a lot of support out there. I wish you all the best. Keep fighting. There’s a lot of support. There’s a lot of people behind you. And everyone who comes here or wants to donate. Every dollar helps. We understand these are tough times. Please keep Walter and his family in your thoughts and prayers. That’s all we can do. It’s the bare minimum,” Mark said.
If you are interested in donating to Walter’s GoFundMe, click here.
Mark said 100% of the proceeds will go towards medical expenses, living expenses and unexpected expenses.
While the Mullis family doesn’t go all out for Christmas like they do for Halloween, they are considering using the display for more than just charity.
“We’ve done enough decorating. There’s nothing like it anywhere near here. I enjoy this because I can wear it up or down with shorts and a T-shirt. Although it’s not fun in January because it’s rainy and cold. , that is definitely a possibility,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mark said his family plans to use the annual Halloween display as a platform for new philanthropy.
To enjoy this year’s Maris family Halloween display, visit 10245 Log Cabin Court in Brecksville.
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