A Delaware County boy who received a hero's welcome last month lost his battle with cancer, according to his family.
The parents of 3-year-old Brayden Chandler announced on Facebook that the boy died on Monday.
"We are saddened to say that heaven gained a superhero yesterday," they wrote. "Brayden has taught us many things in short little life time. And we were proud to be his parents. He battled for his life and always kept a smile while doing it. He was loved by so many people and he loved everyone too. My heart aches for him to not be with me here but I know we will meet again... I know you're at peace now... to infinity and beyond. Love you little man."
In January of 2013, Brayden was diagnosed with a bilateral Wilms Tumor. After battling the disease for over a year, Brayden’s parents were told by doctors that the cancer had relapsed and that there was little more they could do to stop it.
After hearing the news, the young boy and his family were determined to make the most of the time he had left. They went on a trip to Disney World sponsored by the Make a Wish Foundation.
The family returned to Philly International on February 18 around 4:30 p.m. where they were greeted by motorcycles and police cars. The boy then received a police escort as a limo drove him to his home on Pancoast Road in Springfield Township.
When he finally arrived home, friends and family were there to cheer him on.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
“This is an unbelievable event,” said Brayden’s Grandfather Bob Marinelli. “All these police officers from all the different townships came here. The outpouring is unbelievable.”
