Star Wars-themed event focused on sick kids

It’s a Force to be reckoned with: a Star Wars- themed fundraiser for children battling illness.

Jace Wars was launched last year by Port Colborne dad Aaron Russell, whose now four- year- old son Jace Anakin was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 14 months.

The little boy has since had a full recovery, but both he and his dad, who share a love of all things Star Wars, continue to help other children dealing with the grave illnesses.

Jace Wars: Episode II takes place 11 a. m. to 4 p. m. Saturday, at Port Colborne’s Guild Hall on Charlotte St. The fundraiser will feature sketch artists, games, pizza and pop, raffles, vendors and photo- ops with Star Wars characters including Darth Vader (Russell), stormtroopers and droids.

“I guess it’s basically a stag- and- doe for kids said Russell.

Also f eatured will be a “Warrior Wall” profiling 19 Niagara children who have either overcome, are dealing with or been lost to illness.

“It’s to remind us that’s what Jace Wars is all about — fighting adversity.”

Proceeds from the event are earmarked for Ronald McDonald House Hamilton, with a smaller amount going to McMaster Children’s Hospital stem cell research.

Earlier this month, the local Canadian Garrison of the Fighting 501st Legion, an all-volunteer organization of Star Wars costume enthusiasts, raised more than $2,000 for Ronald McDonald House during Niagara Falls Comic Con.

Anyone looking to bring a smile to Jace’s face Saturday should note that the boy’s favourite Star Wars character is Boba Fett.

For more details, visit www.jacewars.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/JaceWars/523633774369846.