UPDATE: GoFundMe has removed the page in question.
Will Roberts, of Ralph, is undergoing testing to determine if his body is strong enough to make the trip to California for osteosarcoma treatment.
The Roberts family was unable to afford the expensive DeltaRex-G treatment, which is not available nationwide, although it is showing promise in treating aggressive forms of cancer.
The 15-year-old Roberts made an online plea heard across the nation, asking for help from the Trump administration. He took over his mother’s Facebook account without her knowledge, saying, "Chances are, this is probably the end of the road for me, and they probably won't get it in time.” But his post was shared nationwide, and Dr. Mehmet Cengiz Oz got the message.
A third of the money raised for the treatment was saved, but last summer, the family’s home was burglarized, and the money was taken from their safe. Now, fake fundraisers are being set up to raise money in the teen’s name.
Brittney Battles Roberts shared the information on Facebook, warning donors.
The legitimate GoFundMe account, set up by Keith Johnston, has raised over half a million dollars. The family says they are overwhelmed with gratitude, and they are hopeful Roberts will be able to undergo the treatment.
The family is asking people to reach out to lawmakers to secure approval of the DeltaRex-G treatment for nationwide use.
In the meantime, Roberts has enjoyed visits from friends and classmates. Since he was unable to attend the Sipsey Middle School formal, his classmates brought the dance to his house Saturday evening.
The fake GoFundMe account, under the name “Mary Huen,” includes a featured photo of Will with U.S. Senate candidate Jared Hudson. The account has not raised any funds, and GoFundMe has received a request for the removal of the page.
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