Within two months, the pain Joshua believed to be growing pains increased, revealing an aggressive form of bone cancer. For the tumor to be removed, Joshua’s leg did, too. Read more to find out how Joshua overcame these obstacles and got back in the game. 

Cracked

In Joshua’s favorite game, Fortnite, the term “cracked” means that a player’s shield is broken. In April 2019, Joshua’s shield was broken when he went to an orthopedist with severe leg pain. What was originally believed to be growing pains turned out to be an aggressive form of bone cancer known as malignant osteosarcoma. 

Devastated and facing 19 rounds of chemotherapy, Joshua and his parents also had to make a very difficult decision. His cancer needed to be removed quickly and completely, but to get all of the cancer, he would lose his right leg. Joshua had always been brave, but he proved to be a true hero as he faced the loss of his leg with optimism. 

Full Send

Just like in Fortnite, Joshua fought his enemy, cancer, at “full send”; he gave it 100% and charged into chemotherapy with determination. His leg was amputated above the knee in July. Joshua was determined to not let this stop him. As soon as he could, he got back to doing the things he loved: playing Fortnite, riding on four-wheelers, and swimming. 

Joshua’s parents proved to be fighters as well, bringing awareness to the need for childhood cancer research and new medications and treatments. They created a Facebook page called “Bomb Away Cancer” to help family and friends follow their journey and to encourage others struggling with similar circumstances. It documents their heroic journey at Full Send.

Victory Royale

Only eight months after first being diagnosed, Joshua rang the bell to celebrate no more chemotherapy. He took his first steps with a prosthetic leg just a few days later and was back in the game! 

Joshua was able to beat the odds, and to celebrate, his parents had a victory-over-cancer party. He was surprised with a Fortnite-themed cake — a Victory Royale. The day would forever mark the perseverance and strength of this brave 9-year-old boy. 

Joshua’s mother, Candice, describes the experience in her own words.

“It was the perfect celebration with family and friends. His baker was magnificent, and the cake was the center of the party. Joshua continues to talk about his cake and how he has triumphed over cancer.”

Help other children find joy as they, too, triumph over cancer. Donate today.