Chad Wasson

Chad Wasson, also known as Chad Carlson, was diagnosed with Stage-4 colon cancer and stomach cancer at the end of June. Now, Wasson has gone through three rounds of chemotherapy and a benefit is being held at the Llama Club in Ashville on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. to help support his bout with cancer.

“He’d give his shirt off his back for anyone,” said Lindsay Truver, Wasson’s cousin. “He’s just an amazing person.”

Wasson and one of his brothers are the only remaining members of their immediate family. His brother will be traveling from Ohio to attend the benefit.

Truver told The Post-Journal Wasson found out he had cancer after going to the emergency room after experiencing intense stomach pains. By the time Wasson was aware he had cancer, it had already spread to his stomach. Wasson had a tumor removed over the summer as well. The doctors, according to Truver, said Wasson’s pain tolerance was unbelievable as his reaction post surgery portrayed him to be in less pain than was expected.

Truver said Wasson appears to be a healthy individual, and if it wasn’t for the cancer he would be.

“His lungs and heart are strong,” she said. “This was completely out of the blue.”

Wasson is a native of Jamestown who graduated from Jamestown High School and studied conservation at BOCES.

Truver said proceeds of the event will be given to Wasson, Truver said.

“We just want him to be comfortable and happy,” she said.

Truver, who was audibly upset when reached by phone Thursday, said Wasson has previously helped out with her own son on numerous occasions and remained hopeful the benefit will have a strong turnout. She hopes the proceeds will help Wasson purchase items that will allow him to live as normal of a life as he can while he’s battling cancer. Truver admired Wasson’s impact on people who know him and the love he receives from them — she shared a similar feeling.

“I love him. That’s my cousin,” she said.

As for Wasson’s treatment, Truver said doctors wouldn’t know its impact until several rounds of chemotherapy have been completed.

“We want him to have nice things because he deserves it,” she said.

The benefit is $10 for admission that will provide food, beer, live music, 50/50 raffles and a Chinese auction. Performances by Flossie & The Gunslingers, Amanda Barton & Sara Rafaloski, Charity Nurse, Kate’s Brothers Band, The Probables, Nick DeSanto and Tangent. Children ages 2 and younger will be given free admission. The event will also have a face painting station. Among the raffle and Chinese auction items are signed miniature Bills helmets and a signed Sabres hockey stick.

Truver reiterated the cancer diagnosis was not expected and warned that everyone should monitor their bodies regularly with checkups to their primary care physicians.

“People need to pay attention to their bodies,” she said.