By Francesca Boston
Photos/Special to The Source
Kashton Thomas is one of the strongest, most resilient little boys you will ever meet. He was diagnosed with Stage 2 B-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma in May of this year, but he has not let his diagnosis slow him down.
His mother, Heather Thomas, says, “Kashton has been nothing short of amazing with how he approaches the obstacles thrown his way. He doesn’t know it, but his father and [I] look up to him … he is our hero.”
Like many people fighting cancer, Kashton is going through chemotherapy, which means that some days are better than others and some days are just difficult. Kashton experiences nausea, stomach pains, weakness and a loss of appetite, all of which have prevented him from playing his all-time favorite sport — soccer.
Some weeks are a lot harder than others his mother says, but with his “chaotic, crazy, loud and unconditionally loving family,” Kashton can face whatever the world throws his way. Kashton still loves to mess with his siblings, Braedyn, Jaxxton and Chaeli, plus he loves going on Harley rides with his dad. Yet, out of all of the Thomas kids, Kashton is the momma’s boy. His mom says, “He always makes sure I’m okay and looks [to] me for reassurance.” For a parent, those little moments make up the world.
The citizens of Jacksonville has rallied together to support Kashton and his family. They have sold shirts and arranged benefits to help cover the cost of medical bills, as Kashton’s chemotherapy is expected to last until the summer of 2023. Friends have gathered to help plan two upcoming benefits. The first is July 24 at the annual Tour de Jax, where the committee chooses a certain person to honor. This year they asked if they could ride for Kashton.
The second will be at The Hangout, where they are hosting a volleyball tournament on July 31. There will also be a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and food. Both events are open to the public and the family would love to see both familiar and new faces.
For more information, check out the Facebook group “Fight Like Kash,” where all the information and updates are shared regularly.
