Community Rallies around Soldier Battling Cancer—Renovates Home in "Extreme Makeover" Style
When asked what the best part of the surprise and experience was, Robert replied, "I think… just the amazing love we feel from everybody."
Army Staff Sergeant, Robert Toland, has devoted his life to serving and defending his country in the Army. For the last year, however, his battle has not been on the front lines, but within his own body. Robert is battling colorectal cancer, which doctors say is terminal. (Photo: FOX News)
Just 31, Robert is husband to a loving wife and father of three young daughters. After numerous treatments, and moving in and out of hospitals, he just wanted to be at home with the family he loves. And, to help make his remaining time more memorable for his little girls and his wife Melanie, Robert purchased his childhood home in western New York.
But, as Robert's condition worsened, he realized making the climb up a long flight of stairs to the second floor master bedroom, and the house's only bathroom, would probably one day be impossible for him.
That's when this beloved soldier's friends, family and community stepped in, in an amazing way.
Perhaps taking a cue from the hit show Extreme Home Makeover, Robert's good friend, Josh, hatched a plan to give the family a trip to Disney World, while secretly renovating their house in their absence.
Josh went to the Christian Youth Corps, and the community, to raise the money needed for the family's "dream vacation" and—unbeknownst to Robert, his wife or the girls—the refurbishing of his childhood home.
In seven days, the house and yard were completely made over, a new garage, septic system, front lawn, redecorated bedrooms for the girls, a new kitchen, and a brand new master bedroom and bathroom on the first floor for Robert and Melanie.
Upon his return, hundreds of people, friends and family lined the street in front of his home. When asked what the best part of the surprise and experience was, Robert replied, "I think… just the amazing love we feel from everybody."
To watch a moving video report from Sean Hannity's America, follow the link provided.
