Giving Tuesday: Barberton Comes Together to Help a Local Man
Published on December 2, 2025
The Spirit of Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is a global movement built on a simple idea: after the rush of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we pause to give back. It’s a day to support nonprofits, charities, and causes that bring light to the world. Whether through donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness, Giving Tuesday reminds us that generosity is one of the most powerful forces we share.
A Local Story: Chris’s Battle
A couple of years ago, Christopher Haught faced serious health challenges, he had a kidney removed, underwent bypass surgery, and had a valve implanted in his heart. With the support of family and friends, he made it through that difficult time.
Now, Chris is facing a new and devastating battle: stage 4 liver cancer that metastasized from his kidney. Despite staying on top of his health with regular checkups and scans, this diagnosis came as a shock.
His cousin, Denise Renee, has once again stepped forward to organize a fundraiser to help ease the burden of medical bills and provide hope during this fight.
Support Chris Directly Through GoFundMe
December 7 Benefit: Barberton Rallies Together
On Sunday, December 7, from 1 PM to 5 PM, the community will gather for a benefit filled with joy and support at Wink's - 75 Fifth Street, SE, Barberton, OH 44203, featuring:
- 🎲 Games and prizes
- 🎁 Raffle baskets
- 🎶 Live music
- 🍫 A s’mores and hot chocolate bar
This event is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a chance to rally together, to show Chris he is not alone, and to help ease the burden of medical expenses during such a challenging time.
Local organizer Torie Mitchell, who has hosted other fundraisers in Barberton, is helping bring this event to life. If you’d like to support her efforts, consider reaching out, whether it’s donating items like heaters or hot drink dispensers for the event, or simply spreading the word, every bit helps.
Read More Details About the Event
Why It Matters
Cancer touches nearly every family. In the United States, about 1.85 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and nearly half of patients and survivors carry medical debt even with insurance. That debt doesn’t just weigh on the patient, it ripples outward, affecting families, caregivers, and communities.
For those who have watched a loved one go from “invincible” to fighting for their life, the struggle is painfully real. It’s awful, it’s exhausting, and it’s why community support matters so much.
Giving Tuesday reminds us that generosity is not just about nonprofits or global causes, it’s about neighbors, friends, and family. It’s about showing up when someone needs us most.
You can help by donating, attending, or sharing the benefit for Chris. Every action, big or small, brings hope and strength. We hope to see you there on December 7 as Barberton comes together to make a difference.
