Video: Haunting For a Good Cause

Text by Jenna Lippin

The extreme Halloween decorations at 189 Wanser Avenue in Inwood have become a neighborhood tradition.

While the walk-through of the “haunted” driveway has always been free, this year donations are being collected for Vivian Castro, a woman battling breast cancer.

There is a brief biography posted to the fence of 189 Wanser Ave. with details about Castro’s battle. She is 47 years old and was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in November 2010. According to the document, Castro has been experiencing issues with her medical insurance and, therefore, her initial treatment was delayed.

Castro endured six rounds of chemotherapy starting in March 2011 and now a double mastectomy is planned. The money collected at the house (donations of at least $1 are required) will go towards Castro’s medical expenses, mainly the post-mastectomy reconstructive surgery that she will need but insurance will not cover.

“All donations are appreciated no matter how big or small,” reads a note on the “Home Haunt” website. “Just look for the donation monster in the front yard and thank you for helping us help a friend in need.”

The props will remain until about a week after Halloween. Some of the decorations have been stolen in the past, so the driveway is closed off and surveillance cameras have been installed all around the property. Most of the items, including statues, skulls and even a hearse, are taken down in one day.

The driveway of 189 Wanser Ave. is open to the public on Halloween only, from 6 to 10 p.m. Visit the “Ghost of Wanser Ave.” Facebook page and the “Home Haunt” website for more information.