Ford Bartle, 4, is the namesake of the Ford Tough Festival, which raised money Tuesday to support an organization dedicated to helping children with cancer.

VALENCIA — Bobby and Carly Bartle had to travel to New York and back more than 20 times this year to treat their 4-year-old son Ford, who was diagnosed with a cancer called neuroblastoma in August 2019.

On Tuesday, family and friends of the Bartles traveled from far and wide to Freedom Farms for the first ever Ford Tough Festival, which was organized as a show of support for the Bartles.

“There isn’t much funding for (this type of) cancer research because it’s rare,” Bobby Bartle said. “And parents don’t get a lot of money for support.”

The festival featured fun and entertainment for kids and families. The evening event highlighted several musical and entertainment acts and a handful of food trucks, along with some kid-centered activities like balloon art and face painting.

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Ford Bartle gives a thumbs up to family members and friends as he arrives at the first ever Ford Tough Festival Tuesday.EDDIE TRIZZINO/BUTLER EAGLE

Ford Bartle, 4, is the namesake of the Ford Tough Festival, which raised money Tuesday to support an organization dedicated to helping children with cancer.EDDIE TRIZZINO/BUTLER EAGLE

The Bartle family organized the Ford Tough Festival Tuesday, which benefitted the not for profit corporation Band of Parents. From left are Carly, Kendall, Ford, Camryn, Hayes, Grant and Bobby Bartle.EDDIE TRIZZINO/BUTLER EAGLE