WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4 News) - The West Jordan Western Stampede Celebration kicks off this week with rodeos, a parade and a carnival. This year there are two grand marshals of the festivities, and we want to introduce you to one of them. He's a eight year old boy named Braxton, and his family's story will inspire you.
"I'm going to be honking the horn, and giving out candy, and be on the firefighter."
He's only eight, but Braxton Williams knows exactly how to be the Western Stampede Grand Marshal. He has his wave ready, and he even knows what sound the fire truck will make in the parade. (Braxton loves to make sounds)
Braxton also knows that he's somewhat of a miracle. Diagnosed with a brain tumor at age three, he made it through surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
"We didn't think he'd make it to kindergarten and he's going into third grade. So when he has dreams, we are like yeah, keep a hold of that because we never thought he would get to this point," mother Caleen Williams says.
It hasn't been an easy road for the Williams family. After Braxton finished his treatments, his younger brother Jaden was diagnosed with the same tumor in the same location. While he was going through chemotherapy, sister Caitlynn was diagnosed with the brain tumor. She passed away last December after an infection.
"Three children with cancer, I don't understand it. I don't understand why we have three children with cancer, but we do and we try to deal with it and do the best we can with it," Williams says.
The two boys are now cancer free and the family is focusing on Braxton's big week. They are grateful for the community support and Braxton is ready for his big moment.
"I think I'm going to be happy, and kind of shy," Braxton says.
There are several events during this week's West Jordan Western Stampede that they money raised will go to the Williams family or to the American Cancer Society in their name. For a list of the festivities you can go to
www.westernstampede.com
