Talent Show Friday!: AMS Gives Back to Choral Student with Cancer Through Music

When Deb Miller first heard her son, Hunter sing a solo for Avon Middle School a cappella group Prelude, she was awestruck at his talent and impressed with his confidence. 

"For the longest time, he wouldn't let me hear him sing," Miller said. "It was amazing. I couldn't even believe it was him."

When Hunter, 13, also a member of the eighth grade Arioso Choir, was diagnosed with a rare form of osteosarcoma in his tibia, Avon Middle School Choral Director Thomas Kawiecki said that "his choral community wanted to show their support by using their gifts to support him."

So, they decided to organize the AMS Gives Back Talent Show to raise money to defray his medical costs. 

"Hunter is a great singer and a dear old soul," Kawiecki said. "He has maturity and sensitivity beyond his years. You can have a meaningful conversation with him and really understand his heart. He has confidence and stands out from the crowd. What impresses me the most is his gratefulness and appreciation. He is super kind, and easy to connect with."

The show includes multiple singing acts with acoustic guitar and piano accompaniments, as well as piano and guitar solos and an appearance by a faculty band.

All proceeds, including admission fees will be donated to his family to help cover his medical expenses. Deb Miller expressed gratitude for the community's support for her son.

"Mr. Kawiecki has always been very good to Hunter," she said.

Hunter will not be in the audience because he is recovering from surgery this week and is still in the hospital, Kawiecki said. However, Hunter may still be able to watch.

"We plan to have a live stream of the show into his hospital room. AMS hopes that Hunter feels the love and care we all have for him," Kawiecki said. "I am personally blown away by everyone's response to this opportunity to come together for a great cause." 

The talent show is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. at the middle school on Friday. 

"I have been able to teach so much through this event," Kawiecki said. "Singers are learning to look beyond themselves and consider someone else in need. The are learning to give from an authentic understanding of a real need. They have come to understand the power of a community coming together to show support and care for one of their own. They are playing an active role in tangibly doing their part to serve someone with their gifts of music and friendship." 

Tickets cost $15 and can only be purchased in advance. Limited tickets remain.