AUGUSTA – The Lewiston-Auburn Jaycees teamed up with the Augusta Area Jaycees for the Big John Walk on March 26. John Buoniconti, or “Big John” as he is called, is walking 16,000 miles across 48 states to raise money for cancer treatment.

The U.S. Jaycees are a national sponsor for the event and will support Buoniconti with fund-raising in chapters throughout the United States.

His walk was inspired by his parents, who died after battling cancer when he was a young child. Because of the lack of insurance coverage for the treatments, Buoniconti was sent a bill for their care at the age of 10. He realized that other families also struggled with affording the cost of treatment and decided his life mission is to raise money for that cause.

Members of the Lewiston-Auburn Jaycees were there to walk with Buoniconti and support him as he kicked off the nationwide walk in Augusta.

The Lewiston-Auburn Chapter was recently formed, and this was the first event for the members. They will do more work in the community to help raise money for the walk and will also take donations for the cause.

Those who would like information about how to donate to the Big John Walk or are interested in learning more about the Jaycees should contact chapter president Joyce Harvey at Joyce.Jaycees@gmail.com.