Meet Benny, a courageous and imaginative 8-year-old boy from Vernon, NJ, who has been facing a battle most children his age couldn’t even begin to imagine. In April of 2020, Benny started experiencing persistent headaches and episodes of vomiting. What seemed like a common childhood illness quickly escalated when a CT scan at the emergency room revealed a 5-centimeter brain tumor. Just two days later, Benny underwent his first brain surgery.

Benny was officially diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor called Ependymoma, along with hydrocephalus, a condition caused by fluid buildup in the brain. The tumor's location in his brainstem made it partially inoperable and extremely difficult to treat. Since that day, Benny’s life has been a whirlwind of hospital visits, scans, treatments, and surgeries—ten brain surgeries in total, 90 rounds of radiation, and many cycles of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite all of this, Benny remains in active treatment and continues to fight with an unwavering spirit.

His most recent brain surgery, in July 2024, brought a particularly tough setback. Benny lost his ability to walk and now relies on a wheelchair or walker for mobility. It has drastically impacted his daily life—he needs help with many everyday tasks and hasn’t been able to attend school with his friends or play soccer, something he once loved so much. Still, what shines through the strongest is his humor, resilience, and heart. Benny has a gift for finding the funny in every situation, and that spirit has carried not only himself but his family through some of the darkest moments.

When we connected with Benny and his family, he had one wish—a shopping spree at Target. So, we made it happen. We spent the day alongside Benny and his parents, aisle by aisle, as he picked out whatever brought him joy. His eyes lit up every time he saw something that caught his attention—stuffed animals, Hot Wheels, Roblox gift cards, board games, action figures—you name it. His parents were also able to pick out much-needed essentials for him, including new clothes and shoes for Benny.

But more than the toys or gifts, this day gave us the opportunity to simply be with Benny. To laugh with him. To watch his creativity and joy come alive. It reminded us why we do what we do—because even amidst all the pain, joy still finds a way in.

Benny dreams of walking again. He dreams of being back on the soccer field, chasing the ball like he used to. With the love of his family, the support of his school community, and a heart full of determination, we believe that Benny will continue to amaze us all.

Benny, thank you for showing us what true bravery looks like. Your strength, smile, and humor are unforgettable—and we’re honored to be a part of your story.