Collinsville Man Battling Cancer Hopes For Support To Put On Successful Haunted House

A Collinsville family hosts an impressive one night only haunted house in their detached garage downtown. It takes the whole year to plan and decorate, and the family gives back by collecting toys for kids.

This year, as the family deals with a heartbreaking situation, they really need their community to show up in full force.

From the outside, the historic white house in Downtown Collinsville appears unsuspecting. But the Haunted Walnut Manor is full of spine-chilling surprises.

“We decided to do something, and something turned into something real big," said Hays.

Elizabeth Hays and her husband, Will, transform their detached garage into an all-out haunted house. A simple idea a few years ago now beckons hundreds of kids inside and up the spooky steps for a few screams.

“I feel terrified now and no one is even in here.” Each room is a different theme, with lights and impressive artwork.

There are creepy creatures lurking in every dark corner. “When that hits your face, and you think it's a spiderweb-- it's terrifying," she said.

The house even came with a Ouija board included. “This is our Ouija board we found upstairs in our attic when we first moved in," she said.

Elizabeth said the haunted house and Halloween is her husband Will’s passion.

The two collect toys for Toys for Tots as a ticket inside and people from the community help with acting and decorating.

But this year, having a successful haunted house is more important than ever, as Will battles stage four cancer.

“My husband was diagnosed with colon cancer," Hays said. "He's in a lot of pain but he can't do much, but the response from all our volunteers and friends to make this year happen-- I'm so grateful for.”

Elizabeth said she wants to see a huge outpouring of love this year, because it’s giving Will the strength to continue.

“It brings joy to Will," she said. "And keeps him going.”

The haunted house is one night only on Saturday, Oct. 29 in Downtown Collinsville from 6:30 until people stop showing up.

People are asked to bring an unwrapped toy or donation for Toys for Tots.