Leamington teen battling cancer asks Santa for Christmas cards
Conner Dufour — who has battled cancer most of his life — asked Santa Claus for a list of typical Christmas gifts: a book bag, a remote control car and a winter coat to keep him warm.
But it was the 17-year-old's last request for Christmas cards that sparked an overwhelming response from students and families throughout Essex County.
Dufour is recovering from brain surgery at Children's Hospital of Western Ontario in London. This is just his latest battle in a life-long fight with cancer. Before heading to the hospital, he penned his letter to Santa.
Once his aunt posted his letter on Facebook, the community responded with widespread support. Val Coletti is a teacher at Western Secondary School in Amherstburg, where Dufour went to school three years ago.
When students and staff heard about Dufour's request, they got to work making cards.
"The biggest thing is that they say he's a strong individual," she told CBC News.
Long battle with cancer
Dufour was first diagnosed with cancer when he was three months old. He has been cancer free since having a bone marrow transplant when he was 18 months old.
Just last month, he learned his cancer had returned, this time in his brain.
On Monday, Dufour underwent brain surgery in London. But before he left, he wrote his Christmas letter to Santa.
His aunt, recognizing her nephew's strong belief in Santa Claus, posted the card on Facebook. Word spread quickly.
Coletti said it's not just Western sending Dufour cards. Other schools, like Walkerville, Leamington District and Essex high schools are penning notes as well.
As Dufour recovers in London, bags full of Christmas cards will be heading to his bedside.
Dufour's grandmother, Shelley Teixeira, said the community support has been overwhelming. She's had people dropping cards off at her front door.
"I'm sure he's going to be so happy," she said. "He's my little rock."
Teixeira will bring the bags of cards this weekend.
