TEMPLE, Texas — A Temple father is inviting all Jeep and car clubs to a giveback event on Oct. 26 inspired by his nine-year-old son.
Austin "JAK" Cavanaugh was born in 2014 and was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Emanuel Syndrome when he was nine months old.
Only about 300 people are diagnosed with Emanuel Syndrome and Austin is one of them. Despite going through 27 surgeries and near-death experiences, Austin is still living and breathing today.
His dad, Todd Cavanaugh, calls his accomplishments unbelievable.
"Being proud is an understatement. He's my hero for sure," Todd Cavanaugh said.
Austin's story is what fuels his dad to honor him and give back to Central Texas, because they've given so much to his son.
When Austin turned six, the community rallied behind the family. For his birthday, people from all across Texas came together and put a smile on his face with several cards and gifts.
That's why for the second consecutive year, Todd Cavanaugh is putting on Jeep-Or-Treat.
"We're going be charging $25 if you want to be a part of our Jeep-Or-Treat competition, we're handing out trophies and awards," the father told 6 News. "We have a gift raffle table too; it's going be crazy."
They are looking for all kinds of clubs, not just JEEPS. There will be vendors and food trucks too.
If you would like to donate a gift basket, promote your business, be a vendor or have a food truck, you can contact Todd Cavanaugh at 254-718-6313!
The event is being held at the Temple Wildcat Stadium parking lot on Oct. 26.
Below is a schedule of the events:
- Set up starts at 10am
- Trunk or treating 1-3pm
- Judging ends at 3:30pm
- Raffles at 4pm
- Awards to follow
- Vendors and food trucks 11am-5pm
- Jeep and car show till 5pm
The event is a combined effort with Texas All Star Jeeps and 254 Jeeps.
The event is something Austin's father hopes will raise awareness.
"There could be other people out there that don't know what's wrong with their child or, you know, or anything. So by putting the word out there, and Austin's famous, you know, you guys made him famous last year."
If you would like to learn more about the rare genetic condition, click here.
To donate to the family, click here.
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