The newly appointed “Champion Child” of the Children’s Miracle Network, Jack Householder, is a 13 year old boy who’s story of triumph has given him the right tools to bring hope to sick kids. Householder was given the position at a ceremony held in the White Oaks Mall Walmart, amidst applause from the large crowd. It was during the presentation that Householder’s battle for his life was told.
In January 2009 at just 5 years old, Householder was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, sending his family’s life into a whirlwind. To have any hope of beating the cancer, 3 years of intensive treatment would have to be carried out, which would put strain on all aspects of the Householder’s relationships. But they took the reigns, refusing to let fear define them. Over the treatment time, Householder underwent seven types of chemotherapy and 925 doses. Though the road was far from smooth, the Householder’s stuck together, and Jack’s upbeat attitude remained a testament to true courage in the hearts and minds of his physicians. Then, at the age of 9, the treatments finished, successfully killing off all remnants of the disease.
But Householder felt a debt to be paid in thanks for the support he received from the Children’s Health Foundation, so he worked to spread the message of hope. When the time came for a new “Champion” to be chosen, authorities knew that Householder would be more than equipped for the task.
Duties in his new position demand that Householder travel across Ontario, speaking at events and raising further awareness about his illness, and many others that children face in hospitals. But the vigor he has already shown, matched equally by the enthusiasm of his family, are a sure sign of success to come.
Where Householder will find himself in the future is anyone’s guess, but there is one certainty on everyone’s mind: only greatness awaits for such an extraordinary young man.
For more photos of Householder’s inauguration, see below: