Lucas was just 13 years old when he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma, and suddenly he and his family were thrust into the terrifying world of pediatric cancer. Soccer and basketball practice were replaced with brutal chemotherapy treatments. Extended hospital stays took the place of sleepovers with friends. While his peers were worrying about algebra tests and school dances, Lucas was fighting for his life.

Lucas was invited to the 2018 Aspen Winter Games, where he met nearly 70 other pediatric cancer warriors just like him. He found a network of new friends (like Zhoonii, pictured above) who understood what it is like to fight cancer. In Aspen, Lucas wasn’t “the sick kid” – he was just a kid again. Though still undergoing intensive cancer treatments, Lucas left Aspen with renewed hope for the future – and the Shining Stars Foundation will be there for him and his family along the way.

Lucas will now be invited to the Shining Stars Foundation’s year-round programs and events, where he will continue developing new friendships and gaining strength and support for the journey ahead. Thank you for helping kids like Lucas find hope and healing!

Meet Lucas