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Mesa veteran with stage 4 cancer receives donated car

Posted at 8:00 PM, Oct 19, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-20 13:40:54-04

Chris Harris served more than 6 years in the army, and was deployed to Iraq for two tours. He found out this past summer however, that cancer would end up being his biggest battle yet. 

"I just can't imagine leaving my son, as young as he is, not being able to see him grow up or anything," said a tearful Chris Harris.

His firm grip on his cane hiding the fact that the 39 year old is fighting for his life. 

"Felt like my world came to an end," said Harris.

The stage four cancer diagnosis took the Harris family by surprise, not only emotionally, but financially.

Some expensive treatments even ended up costing them their car. Clearly stopping chemo was not an option for the Harris's, so they borrowed any car they could.

"I would get up at 2:30 in the morning to take my sister to work, come home and get back up again to take my son to school, and then get Chris up and ready and take him to his treatment," said Kerry Kline, Chris's wife. 

It was their struggle that spawned a helping hand in the form of a new car. 

Valley Express Towing and the Chamber of Commerce gave the couple a little hope in the form of a new Honda Accord Thursday morning.  

"It's something I never expected," said Harris. "This is a gift from god."

Kline said the unexpected gift provided a new confidence, that no matter the journey that lies ahead, they're never alone. "I don't just let him fade away, he has to get up and he has to fight. He can't go anywhere, he's our rock," said his wife. 

The family still has a long road ahead with many unforeseen expenses. If you would like to donate to help the family click here