CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. -- Family members and friends threw an amazing birthday bash Saturday for a five-year-old boy with terminal cancer.
Little Jayden Hughes was diagnosed two years ago with Neuroblasoma Stage 4 cancer. He had a bone marrow transplant and his right kidney removed.
His family said doctors told them last week that his cancer is terminal and that Jayden has just a few months to live.
As a result, his family is doing everything they can to help Jayden experience the most of his time left.
“I don’t think he’s ever been to a movie. We are going to take him to a movie. We will let him eat Sweet Frog. Anything he wants, he’s going to get it,” Jayden's aunt, Michelle Persell, said.
And that mission is now shared by hundreds of generous people in Central Virginia and even other states.
“I’ve gotten home and had gifts dropped off on my porch," Persell said. "People have been coming to my job to leave stuff. I just can't put it into words.”
Family and friends celebrated Jayden's unofficial birthday Saturday at Cicis Pizza in Midlothian. Scores of superheroes, including Batman dropped by. And there was even an appearance by Santa, who reported Jayden has been a very good boy this year.
In addition, a huge community celebration is being planned for Sunday, Nov. 13 at Wholesale Guitars on Hull Street.
Steve Bryant, who owns the store, donated the space for the event because Jayden's story touched his heart.
“It’s easy. We were put here for self. We were put here to help each other," Bryant said.
Percell said everyone is invited to the community event and that Jayden’s family is eager to give nd a personal thank you for everyone who has reached out to help.
After the community party on Nov. 13, Persell said their mission will turn to granting Jayden his wish of a lifetime.
“We are getting in contact with Make A Wish Foundation. That’s the next step. Getting him to LEGOLAND is the ultimate goal. That’s what he wants and he doesn’t even know that may be a real option,” Persell explained.
With love and support like the family has experienced this week, Persell has faith that will happen too.
Aspecial Go Fund Me page called “All For Jayden” will help the family with Jayden's medical expenses as well as making as many of his wishes as possible come true.
