Lotatoa Ward, an 8-year-old from Utah, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in October of 2014. His tumor later became malignant.
Like Ethan Carnesecca, who found happiness with Hot Wheels, and Bubby Everson, who wanted birthday cards during his sickness, Ward has found solace in one activity: running.
“It helps me a lot through tough times,” he says in the video below. “It kind of fights my tumor. It makes me better and happy.”
Ward even postponed his chemotherapy so he can participate in the 10th annual Antelope Island Buffalo Run, which would require him to run up to 50 miles. You'll be amazed when you find out how many miles he was able to run!
“He fought us to run [a] half marathon last year. We finally joined them up, and he ran three more after," his father, Keith Ward, says. "I told him if he wanted to I’d join him up for 50-miler, and here he is.”
A fundraiser was started for Lotatoa to help his family cover mounting medical expenses, while a blog titled “Lotatoa Our Warrior” has been documenting his struggles — and his strength.
“We are deeply grateful for Lota and his positive attitude about life and his struggles. It is his strength that carries us through when we feel like we can't take one more step forward,” the blog says.
Watch Lotatoa run below and please SHARE this young boy’s story to inspire your family and friends!
