Benefit baby shower seeks to help family

SANDPOINT — Beckham Williams has had a rough go in his first few months of life.

Born three months premature to Sandpoint native Auna Spencer Williams and her husband, Christopher Williams, the baby boy only weighed 1 pound, 6 ounces at birth. His early delivery prompted medical problems that required constant attention and ever-mounting medical expenses.

Local friends of the family are rallying to help the young parents cope with the crippling expenses until Beckham’s health improves. From 1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 25, friends and extended family of the Williams are hosting a baby shower, complete with cake and ice cream, at Ivano’s with the goal of collecting baby supplies and financial donations.

“The main goal is to help with their rent money over the next few months, so financial contributions are preferred over items,” said Theresa Stevens, one of the event planners.

Money is bound to be tight for a pair of young parents with a special needs child. Beckham requires constant attention due in large part to his respiratory system, which is dependent on a tracheotomy and an oxygen system to function. He has had five close calls over the past months, including one harrowing instance when his mother found him turning blue only days after he was taken home from his nine-month hospital stay.

Beckham’s condition needs constant monitoring. That task is split into three shifts, according to Stevens and fellow family friend Monica Gunter. One is covered by his parents, while nurses with the appropriate certifications in tracheotomy training must cover the other two. In fact, Christopher and Auna Williams themselves had to undergo eight weeks of training to learn how to manage Beckham’s needs and equipment. Doctors hope that with careful care and some hard work, Beckham will be able to breath on his own within two years.

“The family requests lots of prayer for Beckham for continued growth and improvement,” Gunter said.

Of course, financial help and item donations go a long way, too. In addition to the Ivano’s fundraiser and donation drive, monetary donations can be sent any in Auna Williams’ name any time to 334 Monarch Road, Sagle, ID, 83860. Any questions can be directed to Stevens at 255-8628.

“We’re hoping everyone will come to Ivano’s with financial help and gifts for Beckham and enjoy a little coffee, tea, cake and ice cream with us,” Stevens said.