After 5-Year-Old Completes Chemo, A Parade Of Firetrucks Flood His Neighborhood To Celebrate With Him

May 01, 2020 by apost team

A 5-year-old boy with autism was treated to a parade of firetrucks to celebrate his fifth birthday and the end of his chemotherapy for leukemia.

At the age of 2, Simon was diagnosed with autism. In September 2018, his parents enrolled Simon in the Lerner School for Autism, the center’s facility that focuses on teaching communication, play, socialization, and developmentally appropriate skills.

“With autism, you’re always concerned about regression,” notes Simon's mom, Autumn. “It’s crucial that you start therapy, and the earlier the better.” However, just three months after Simon was diagnosed with autism came another life-altering diagnosis: Simon also had B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood cancer. 

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Thankfully, 28 days after the ALL diagnosis, his cancer went into remission. But because of COVID-19, he couldn't ring a bell at the children's hospital to mark the end of cancer treatment.

He was, instead, treated to a surprise truck parade, which was just perfect for Simon whose dream job is to be a fireman. 

Family and friends drove by in more than 50 cars, holding out signs, honking, and cheering. First responders flashed their lights and blared their sirens for the little firefighter. Simon even received a toy firetruck and a goodie bag from a first responder himself.

The entire parade looked like something out of a movie. Not only did this ring the end of his chemotherapy, but it was also Simon's 5th birthday. It was a perfect double celebration to say the least.

Happy end of treatment to Simon! Pass this heartwarming story along to your friends and family so they, too, can watch how the parade turned out.