Fight Brewing Over Whether A Delco Home Should Become Residence For Cancer Patients
SWARTHMORE, Pa. (CBS) -- "We're standing in the welcoming porch of hopefully our Nick's house second location."
If all goes as planned Cheryl Colleluori will be welcoming out-of-town cancer patients in need of a place to stay during their care at local hospitals.
The seven bedroom home at 200 S. Chester Road in Swarthmore would serve as free temporary housing for at least seven patients and a caregiver.
"There are approximately 195 families a month in search of housing in an effort for life saving measures."
How The Giving Spirit Can Give You The 'Helper's High'
Cheryl runs the nonprofit Headstrong Foundation in memory of her son Nick, who was 19 when he passed away with cancer.
Swarthmore Borough has granted approval for the accommodation, but concerned neighbors say not so fast, and have filed an appeal.
"The whole thing doesn't sound well thought out to me," says John Coldiron.
Coldiron lives a few doors down from the home and worries about increased traffic and the safety of those who would be staying in the house.
"Additional traffic here would not be welcomed."
"We have nothing against cancer patients, but they should be in a place which is adequate for their care."
Other neighbors are welcoming the home.
"Many people are looking forward to volunteering here and looking forward to it being part of the community," says Cheryl. "We're hoping for a favorable ruling."
Borough council members tell us they can't publicly discuss the case because it is currently in appeal. They say they expect to render a final ruling on December 5.
