Childhood cancer target of fundraiser
MIDDLESEX TWP — Late last year, Ford Bartle’s neuroblastoma cancer relapsed, and he had to go through some “really serious treatment” that lasted a few months.
Bobby Bartle, Ford’s dad, said the 5-year-old, who was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma in August 2019, when he was 2 years old, has been clear of cancer for most of 2022 and is now adjusting to preschool life.
“Since February, his scans have been clear, and he has remained clear,” Bobby said. “Since he has had clear scans, he has been generally very energetic, he is in preschool, playing soccer with the Mars Soccer Club, so he is being a kid.”
On Friday, the community celebrated Ford with a fundraiser, the Ford Tough Festival, at Freedom Farms. The second-annual event featured live music performances, food, hay rides, a silent auction and basket raffles.
After being diagnosed, Ford underwent chemotherapy and radiation at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and doctors said in March 2020 that he had no evidence of the cancer.
Ford’s mom, Carly Bartle, said the number of people who attended the event was uplifting, especially after the difficult time Ford had because of his cancer’s relapse. She said that seeing the event grow even larger in its second year was encouraging.
This story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. Please consider supporting our local, independent newsroom by subscribing at butlereagle.com.
