Joe Freed (pictured right) is a long-time employee at A.W.E. Auto Service in Traer. Freed has been unable to work over the past six months while he receives cancer treatments. A.W.E. Auto Service has established a fundraising effort to assist Freed and his family while he recovers. -- Photo provided

As folks look toward the new year, one business in Traer is seeking to lift up an employee who has faced life-threatening challenges during an already unforgiving year.

Joe Freed of Traer has worked as an auto service technician at A.W.E. Auto Service in Traer for the past 13 years. In July Freed was diagnosed with oral cancer and has been unable to work since that time while he has sought treatment.

Freed initially hoped to return to work in January but found out his cancer had spread and further treatment would not allow him to return back to his normal routine as soon as he hoped.

Owner Gretchen Pargeon and the team at A.W.E. Auto Service have organized a community fundraising effort to assist Freed and his family as they continue cancer treatment in hopes of a full recovery.

A.W.E. Auto Service is asking community members to consider a donation to help out Freed and report that more than 20 donations have come in since the drive began.

Those wishing to contribute are encouraged to stop by A.W.E. Auto Service at 1001 2nd St. in Traer or to contact Dahn Kennedy at A.W.E. by calling 319-478-8460. Donations can also be sent online through Venmo @gretchen-pargeon.